LEHIGH VALLEY, Pa. - Air Products has sold its sodium vinyl sulfonate (SVS) North American distribution activities to Proviron Fine Chemicals NV of Ostend, Belgium. With this acquisition, Proviron reinforces its worldwide sales and marketing activities for SVS. Air Products' decision to exit the SVS business was related to recognition of Proviron's superior position to serve North American SVS customers, allowing Air Products to focus on the growth of its Performance Materials business.

The sale includes Air Products' SVS customer lists but does not directly impact any employees or physical production facilities. Previously, Air Products was purchasing SVS from Proviron and conducting North American sales, marketing and distribution for the product. These activities will all be fully assumed by Proviron with the sale.

"We see this as another move to again increase focus on the growth of our Performance Materials business," said Mark Wydra, general manager of Performance Solutions at Air Products.

SVS is used as an emulsifying agent in water-based systems, including paints.