Matt Hauer

Matt Hauer asked about Ecolab's positioning in next-generation cooling technologies, such as direct-to-chip cooling, and whether the company possesses all necessary capabilities or if additional bolt-on acquisitions are anticipated in this area.

Answer

Christophe Beck, Ecolab's Chairman and CEO, acknowledged that no one has everything needed for leading-edge direct-to-chip cooling, but emphasized that fluid management is Ecolab's core mastery. He detailed Ecolab's current capabilities, including coolant intelligence units integrating 3D tracer technology, connected coolants for thermal performance, and coolant monitoring systems. Beck stated that Ecolab has many necessary pieces and is actively developing and exploring new ones. He expressed bullishness about the company's dual strategy in high-tech: owning circular water at ultra-pure standards in microelectronics (with AVEVA) and cooling technologies in data centers, believing it will significantly change Ecolab's growth profile.

Matt Hauer asked about Ecolab's positioning in next-generation cooling technologies for data centers, such as direct-to-chip cooling, and whether the company possesses all necessary capabilities or if further bolt-on acquisitions are anticipated.

Answer

Christophe Beck, Chairman and CEO of Ecolab, acknowledged that direct-to-chip cooling is leading-edge technology and no one has everything needed. However, he emphasized that fluid management is a core mastery for Ecolab. He detailed Ecolab's existing technologies, including coolant intelligence units with 3D TRAZOR, connected coolants for thermal performance, and coolant monitoring systems. Beck stated that Ecolab is developing and exploring new pieces needed for the future, aiming to become the owner of cooling technology for data centers globally, complementing its microelectronics strategy with Aveva Electronics for ultra-pure water.