NuSil buys Rhodia implantable silicone lines

CARPENTERIA, Calif. (June 4)—NuSil Technology has purchased the long-term implantable silicone lines of Rhodia Inc.'s silicones unit for an undisclosed amount. NuSil receives the product line and customer lists from more than 30 long-term implantable lines. The materials are used in such devices as cochlear ear implants, stomach elastic bands, pacemaker leads and other products that are implanted for 29 days or more. NuSil said the purchase strengthens its commitment to supplying materials for the healthcare market, which represents about 70 percent of its business, according to CEO Richard Compton. The firm will manufacture the lines at its Carpenteria factory. Rhodia said the divestiture will allow it to focus on other healthcare growth opportunities, which include its new optimized liquid silicone rubber product range.