Oct. 31--Shares of Calgon Carbon advanced 6 percent yesterday after the Robinson environmental products and services provider reported a sixfold increase in third-quarter profits on a 9 percent increase in sales. The company credited favorable pricing and demand in key markets for the results, which topped analyst estimates.

Net income totaled $13.9 million, or 25 cents per diluted share, on sales of $107.5 million, vs. earnings of $2.2 million, or 4 cents per diluted share, and sales of $99.1 million in the year-ago quarter.

Results for the current quarter reflect an $800,000 tax benefit vs. taxes of $1.6 million in 2008's third quarter. Operating income increased 15 percent to $14.1 million. Last year's results included a $6.3 million charge for paying down debt.

Chairman, President and CEO John Stanik said the company benefited from sales of activated carbon for a potable water treatment plant in Asia and for removing mercury from coal-fired power plants. That offset declining demand in the company's traditional markets, he said.

"We are very encouraged by the demand for our activated carbon products in these emerging markets, which we have identified as major growth opportunities," Mr. Stanik said.

The results were released before the market opened. Calgon Carbon shares traded as high as $16 yesterday before closing at $15.84, up 87 cents. They are up 3 percent for the year.

Len Boselovic can be reached at lboselovic@post-gazette.com or 412-263-1941.

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