Cathodeon manufactures specialty light sources for UV spectroscopy, HPLC (high pressure liquid chromatography), atom absorption spectroscopy and other analytical measuring methods, supplying the products to OEM (original equipment manufacturers) around the world.

"With this acquisition, we are able to significantly broaden our offering in the area of analytical measurement processes," said Rainer Kuchler, managing director of Heraeus . He noted that Cathodeon's hollow cathode and glass lamps complement Heraeus' own quartz lamp technology, and provide it with a strong brand and customer base that it would have taken years to develop independently.

"On top of that, we can realise significant technological synergies in the planned close cooperation with our UK subsidiary, which specialises in laser lamps," he added.

The German company said it will now be looking for new premises in Cambridge, where both Cathodeon and its UK subsidiary are based.

With annual sales of €64 million in 2002, Heraeus has its headquarters in Hanau, Germany, and subsidiaries in the US, UK, and China. It specialises in infrared and ultraviolet emitters for applications in research, technology, production, analytical laboratories, medicine and environmental protection.