^{Joint News Release}

BASF and Omya enter global partnership on hollow glass microspheres for cementing and drilling applications in the oil and gas industry

• Hollow glass microspheres are applied in the oil and gas industry as lightweight material for the cementing of boreholes
• Unique combination of shape with controllable size and lower density at higher compressive strength enables innovative application benefits
• Partnership combines BASF´s technology and application expertise in cementing with Omya´s vast expertise in minerals and lightweight solutions

Ludwigshafen, Germany and Oftringen, Switzerland – April 26, 2021 – BASF and Omya are joining forces in the advancement and commercialization of BasoSphere™ hollow glass microspheres for cementing applications in the oil and gas industry.

With unique combinations of shape and size, as well as lower density and higher compressive strength, BasoSphere is a product family of engineered hollow glass microspheres which offer superior strength to density ratios and prevent fluid loss and formation damage during well completion. It will be exclusively commercialized by BASF.

The innovative hollow glass microspheres combine BASF's chemical and application expertise for cementing products in the oil and gas industry with Omya's experience in the production of fillers. “We are thrilled to partner with Omya for this lightweight cementing solution which enhances our offering to the global oil and gas industry,” says Damien Caby, Senior Vice President, BASF Oilfield Chemicals and Mining Solutions. “By reducing the amount of cement required, BasoSphere hollow glass microspheres also contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions during the completion of oil and gas wells.”

“Omya is proud to partner with BASF and establish a solid cooperation to make the next generation of lightweight materials available for applications in the oil and gas industry,” says Herlinde Wauteraerts, CEO Omya Region Europe.

More information on the BASF Oilfield Chemicals cementing portfolio can be found on www.oilfield-chemicals.basf.com.

About BASF Oilfield Chemicals

With innovative products, global field support and industry leading technical expertise, BASF Oilfield Chemicals provides sustainable solutions which increase productivity, recovery and flexibility of oilfield operations in cementing, drilling, stimulation and production. Further information can be found at www.oilfield-chemicals.basf.com.

BASF Oilfield Chemicals is part of BASF’s Performance Chemicals division. The division’s portfolio also includes Fuel and Lubricant Solutions, Plastic Additives, as well as Mining Solutions and Kaolin Minerals. Customers from a variety of industries including Chemicals, Plastics, Consumer Goods, Energy & Resources and Automotive & Transportation benefit from our innovative solutions. To learn more, visit www.performancechemicals.basf.com.

About Omya

Omya is a leading global producer of industrial minerals – mainly derived from calcium carbonate, dolomite and perlite – and a worldwide distributor of specialty chemicals. The company provides a wealth of innovative product solutions that contribute to its customers' competitiveness and productivity in multiple industries such as Construction, Paper & Board, Polymers, Food and Personal & Home Care. Omya further provides Environmental Solutions targeting the agriculture, water and energy markets.

Founded in 1884 in Switzerland, Omya has a global presence extending to more than 175 locations in over 50 countries with 9,000 employees. Committed to implementing the principles of sustainability at all company levels, Omya provides added value products and services from responsibly sourced materials to meet the essential needs of current and future generations. www.omya.com

P-21-193