I ♥ Chemie

Our site in Krefeld, Germany, welcomed more than 3,000 visitors to an open house with "I love chemistry" as its theme. Family members, neighbors and local residents donned personal protective equipment for a glimpse into our water treatment facilities and laboratory.

Information on Ashland's products and mission were presented in the exhibition tent, and guests were invited to see live experiments and product demonstrations. The Krefeld plant produces flocculants such as Praestol™ and Drewfloc™, Antispumin™ defoamers, Tallofin™ deposit control agents, and PerForm™ advanced retention and drainage aids.

“We live in the neighborhood and are excited to take a look behind the scenes,” said one neighbor. “Great program.”

Ashland’s dedication to safety was showcased by the local fire brigade's demonstration of a fire response drill.

Visitors did not miss out on information about Ashland’s push for sustainable development and environmental safety. Special guided tours on the subject were offered every hour, and the Umweltmobil (environment-mobile) presented the site’s measures to keep our environment clean and our surroundings healthy.

“We are happy to have the opportunity to invite people to take a look at our site and how we work,” said Klaus Busam, plant manager. “This event gives us the opportunity to talk to neighbors and residents, get their perspective, listen to their concerns and address them right away. The response of the community is phenomenal.”

The young were entertained with special programs, such as a children’s laboratory and magic shows. The sale of raffle tickets raised €3,000 and Ashland added €2,000, which will go to the local food bank.

Employees wore I ♥ Chemie T-shirts.

Visitors in protective gear toured the site.

Klaus Busam, left, and Ralf Thiel with a poster.