Fundamentally, we manipulate basic materials — typically minerals — to alter their structure and surface characteristics. We manipulate them mechanically and chemically, altering their size, shape, porosity and chemical characteristics to produce a wide range of functionality with important business uses. We enable our customers, for instance, to change the appearance, image and functionality of everything from product packaging to automotive finishes by controlling the way light is absorbed or reflected from the surface of a particle. Manipulating that same particle to absorb or repel water produces an entirely new set of applications.