This latest-generation technology by Magpie Polymers captures metals, such as palladium, platinum, silver and gold, that would otherwise be lost.

According to Italmatch Chemicals, this investment allows the group to further consolidate its focus on industrial water and process treatment, thus expanding and refining the current production range, as well as reaching new added-value market targets.

"This transaction permits us to embrace open innovation," said Sergio Iorio, CEO of Italmatch Chemicals, "and to continue our growth via both internal and external guidelines, through quality, research, development, technology and performance, but also through new and important acquisitions."

Steven van Zutphen, CEO of Magpie Polymers, commented: "After a development phase supported by FLM, a venture capital investment fund managed by Emertec Gestion, I am proud to enter the growth phase of our project with Italmatch Chemicals, a world-renowned company.

"Selectivity is the key to our technology, and it is with the same selectivity we have chosen to join forces with a Group that could, strategically and synergistically, develop our business through a strong innovation-driven approach and a global sales footprint."