Ceradyne Inc. recently announced that it has acquired a minority interest with an option to acquire all of Tempe, Ariz.-based Graphite Machining Services and Innovations LLC (GMSI). GMSI has developed a proprietary method of applying a chemical vapor deposited (CVD) silicon carbide ceramic coating on precision machined graphite shapes. The resultant product is used in the manufacture of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for the solid state lighting market. This acquisition of GMSI is not expected to materially affect Ceradyne’s 2012 financial performance. 

“We are excited about this relatively small but high technology investment in GMSI,” said David Reed, president of Ceradyne’s North American operations. “It fits very well with our diversification strategy, coupled with our interest in building out Ceradyne’s advanced technical ceramics portfolio. Furthermore, the market for efficient, environmentally friendly LED lighting systems is expected to grow very rapidly over the next 10 years.”

For additional information, visit www.ceradyne.com.