Gelest purchases polymer supplier Bimax

Gelest Inc. acquired has Bimax, a manufacturer and marketer of specialty monomers and polymers.

The addition is part of Gelest's strategic plan as Bimax strengthens its position in high-growth, value-added applications, Gelest CEO Ken Gayer in a statement. The deal, which provides access to new customers and talent, also expands its production and research and development capabilities.

Glen Rock, Pa.-based Bimax develops products for life sciences and medical device applications, including coatings and adhesives, advanced technology applications, contact lenses, intraocular lenses and personal care products.

"Bimax fits very well with our corporate culture and our philosophy of enabling our customers' technology, and we look forward to working with the management team at Bimax going forward," Gayer said.

The acquisition is part of the plan for Morrisville, Pa.-based Gelest of New Mountain Capital, its investment company owner, according to Andre Moura, a New Mountain managing director.

"The two businesses are highly complementary," he said, "and the combination will provide enhanced value to customers."

Gelest is a manufacturer and supplier of silicones, organosilanes and metal-organics for markets including medical device, life sciences, microelectronics and personal care.