News in brief

Tioxide Specialties has changed its name to ICI Vertec. The business operates within the Enterprise Group of ICI Industrial Specialties, and produces catalysts for the polymer industry and additives for the paints and inks industries.

* £200m path to profit

Inspec, the chemicals group, has reported a strong rise in profits, helped by the first full year contribution from Shell Fine Chemicals. John Hollowood, chairman, said the results vindicated the decision to pay £200m for the business.

* DuPont set to sell off plant

DuPont Canada has agreed to sell its Gibbons, Alberta peroxide plant to Degussa Corporation. The agreement is subject to the approvals of Corporate boards and the relevant governmental authorities. Both parties are targeting for a first quarter closing.

* Germ of an idea

The UK's centre for germ warfare research at Porton Down is setting up a science park. Several biotechnology companies are expected to move to the site on the Wiltshire downs near Salisbury. The priority is to attract British companies to the park.

* Loads more alpha-olefins

Amoco Corporation is set to expand production of linear alpha-olefins (LAO) at its plant in Feluy, Belgium, by a 50 per cent to a total of 300,000 metric tons. The project is scheduled to come onstream in the second quarter of 1999.

* The big one

DSM and Koninklijke Gist-Brocades are intending to merge. The two companies combined are set to be a leading force in the supply of fine chemicals (including enzymes) and as a supplier of products and services to the pharmaceuticals and foodstuffs industries.

* BASF takeover in Argentina

BASF Poliuretanos (Argentina) has taken over polyetherol production, the systems business of the Alkanos company in Burzaco, Buenos Aires. This gives BASF Poliuretanos a polyetherol plant with an annual capacity of 3000 metric tonnes.