Hexion Inc., an adhesives and performance materials solutions company, has announced its acquisition of Smartech, a cutting-edge technology company at the forefront of AI-driven autonomous manufacturing solutions. This strategic acquisition, Hexion's first in a decade, marks a bold step in the company's strategy to revolutionize the manufacturing ecosystem, harnessing cutting-edge AI and machine learning technology to drive unprecedented gains in production efficiency, cost, sustainability, and product quality—in the wood processing industry and beyond.
Smartech's award-winning AI and autonomous manufacturing technologies combine artificial intelligence, advanced control systems, and process optimization algorithms to drive critical process improvements for customers. The engineered systems, including SmartWAX, SmartPF, and SmartMDI, integrate seamlessly with Hexion's product portfolio, strengthening the company's leadership in the adhesives, construction, and building materials sectors.
One of Smartech's flagship innovations, the patented SmartMDI system, exemplifies the potential of this new alliance. By using dynamic chemistry control to allow for more precise resin application in engineered wood production, SmartMDI enhances surface coverage and reactivity, reduces raw materials cost, and lowers VOC emissions. The ability to generate significant cost savings—more than 15% per mill—SmartMDI demonstrates its power to deliver environmental and economic value in manufacturing.
This acquisition also aligns with Hexion's 5-year transformation journey under the stewardship of American Securities, which took ownership in 2022. The move amplifies Hexion's long-term vision to deliver short-term value gains while simultaneously positioning the 150-year-old company for its next century of market leadership via a renewed focus on innovation, operational excellence and partnerships that turn bold ideas into real-world solutions.
The financial terms of the Smartech acquisition were not disclosed. Smartech will continue to operate as an independent business entity servicing its customers as it does currently.
