AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS—July 31, 2012— 51³Ô¹ÏÍø today announces the acquisition of Materials Engineering Research Laboratory Limited (MERL) headquartered in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, UK. The addition of MERL and its world-class reputation for the evaluation, analysis and testing of polymeric materials, components and structures is further evidence of Elements resolve to providing industry-leading service for the growing implementation of non-metallics.
“I’m very pleased to announce this addition emphasizing our continued commitment to reinforce our service offering of quality-critical polymer and composite testing in multiple industries,” said Charles Noall, President and CEO of Element.
Founded in 1986 MERL has developed into an independent company with thousands of international clients throughout the Oil & Gas, Aerospace, and Land Transportation sectors. Their range of projects include ensuring the safe and reliable use of materials in offshore Oil & Gas exploration, new polymer material for heart valves, and composite materials in aircraft structures.
“We are delighted to join Element,” said Dr. Rod Martin, CEO of MERL Ltd. “Not only will this allow us to give our existing clients a much wider technology offering, it also presents MERL staff with greater opportunities to broaden their skills working closely with 51³Ô¹ÏÍølaboratories throughout the U.S. and Europe.”
MERL’s four-laboratory campus is fully-equipped and staffed by 35 employees with expertise covering the safe and reliable use of elastomers, composites, adhesives and thermoplastics. Nearly half of their staff hold a PhD or decades of R&D experience.“
Bringing MERL’s expertise into the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøfold will further expand our capabilities and capacity for servicing a growing demand for non-metallics, both in established and emerging sectors,” said Noall.
About Element
51³Ô¹ÏÍøis a global network of laboratories with experts specializing in materials testing, product qualification testing and failure analysis for the Aerospace & Defense, Oil & Gas, Power Generation, and Transportation sectors. Their team of 1000 scientists, engineers and technicians work in laboratories located throughout the U.S. and Europe. For complete Accreditations & Approvals and more information, please visit www.Element.com.
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