The deal also includes contingent payments of up to $100 million during the 15-year period following completion of the merger based upon revenues achieved over that period by SemEquip.

SemEquip (North Billerica, Mass.) is a supplier of cluster ion implantation sub-systems and ion source materials for the manufacture of logic and memory chips.

This acquisition will expand Ceradyne Boron Products' business and will extend Ceradyne's market opportunity in the semiconductor industry. Ceradyne acquired Ceradyne Boron Products LLC, formerly EaglePicher Boron LLC, in August 2007.

Ceradyne develops, manufactures, and markets advanced technical ceramic products and components for defense, industrial, automotive/diesel, and commercial applications.