1934
1964
In Marl (Germany), IKO Industriekohle GmbH & Co. KG is founded, offering products predominantly made from carbons (lustrous carbon formers) for the foundry industry.
1964
1968
The first mixture of carbons and bentonites is launched into the German market.
1977
The portfolio is expanded to include the Bregenzer auxiliaries and accessories for foundry applications.
1977
1982
Expansion of bentonite and coal production capability in France (IKO France S.A.R.L.)
1988
First affiliation of S&B and IKO, through a joint participation in IBECO Bentonit-Technologie GmbH in Mannheim/Germany.
1988
1990
Expansion of production capability in eastern Germany, after reunification (BentoCarbon).
1994
Merger of two companies – IKO Industriekohle and Erbslöh Geisenheim, adds Bavarian bentonite to the foundry portfolio. S&B acquires 50% of the new company.
1994
2001
S&B acquires the remaining 50% of the shares and IKO becomes a wholly-owned subsidiary of S&B Group.
2007
S&B acquires the foundry business of the Hill & Griffith Co and bentonite reserves in the U.S.
2007
2008
Expansion of production capability in Turkey (S&B Endustriyel Mineraller A.S.).
2009
S&B acquires the foundry business of Bentonite Performance Minerals LLC in the U.S.
2009
2013
S&B acquires a 50% stake in Chaoyang GoldCommon Mining Co Ltd, a leading bentonite producer in China.
2014
S&B acquires Guido Vincon e Figli S.p.A., a leading Italian producer of additives for the Foundry industry
2014
2014
S&B acquires a 50% stake in Gimpex-S&B India Pvt Ltd, a leading bentonite producer in India.
2015
S&B becomes part of the Imerys Group and the IKO brand becomes Imerys Metalcasting Solutions.
2015
