Surface Technologies Q1 2021 Sales in the Surface Technologies segment rose considerably compared with the first quarter of 2020. The Catalysts division recorded considerable sales growth, while the Coatings division saw a slight increase. (XLSX:) XLS Factors influencing sales in Q1 2021 – Surface Technologies Surface Technologies Catalysts Coatings Volumes 16% 18% 12% Prices 31% 37% 1% Portfolio 0% 0% 0% Currencies –10% –10% –8% Sales 37% 45% 5% The sales increase was largely attributable to higher price levels in the Catalysts division as a result of higher precious metal prices. This led to a considerable increase in sales in precious metal trading to €2,904 million (Q1 2020: €2,278 million). In the Coatings division, prices were above the prior-year quarter in almost all business areas. Significantly higher volumes in both divisions also contributed to the development of sales. In the Catalysts division, higher sales volumes for mobile emissions and chemical catalysts more than compensated for lower volumes in the refining catalysts business. Volume growth in the Coatings division was primarily driven by a recovery in automotive production in Asia following the pandemic-related collapse in the prior-year quarter. This resulted in significantly higher volumes, especially in the automotive OEM coatings business. Sales volumes of decorative paints and automotive refinish coatings also rose considerably in response to stronger demand. Volumes rose slightly in the surface treatment business. This was partially offset by currency effects, mainly in North America and Europe. Income from operations (EBIT) before special items rose considerably compared with the first quarter of 2020. This was largely driven by volume growth in both divisions. The positive development in earnings was supported by lower fixed costs, especially in the Catalysts division. (XLSX:) XLS Segment data – Surface Technologies (Million €) Q1 2021 2020 +/– Sales to third parties 5,947 4,328 37% of which Catalysts 5,110 3,532 45% Coatings 837 796 5% Income from operations before depreciation, amortization and special items 470 338 39% Income from operations before depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) 466 334 40% EBITDA margin % 7.8 7.7 − Depreciation and amortizationa 110 117 –6% Income from operations (EBIT) 356 217 64% Special items –4 –3 –33% EBIT before special items 360 220 64% Assets (March 31) 13,349 12,403 8% Investments including acquisitionsb 73 83 –12% Research and development expenses 67 55 22% a Depreciation and amortization of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (including impairments and reversals of impairments) b Additions to property, plant and equipment and intangible assets back next