Nov 09, 2011. /Lesprom Network/. Neenah Paper, Inc. reported a 40% increase in earnings per diluted common share, with $0.42 in the 3Q 2011 compared to $0.30 in the 3Q 2010. Net sales of $174.9 million in the 3Q 2011 rose 8% compared to the 3Q 2010, while consolidated operating income increased 7%, growing to $12.5 million in the current quarter from $11.7 million in the 3Q 2010, as the company said in a press release received by Lesprom Network. Commenting on results, John O’Donnell, CEO, said, “Our businesses performed well in the quarter, as we delivered solid growth in revenues and EBIT despite cresting input costs and added economic uncertainty. We continue to take actions to improve our mix and grow our higher value products, while carefully managing costs and selling prices. Our stronger balance sheet and lower debt this year have also helped both our bottom line and cash flow.” Technical Products segment's net sales of $107.1 million in the 3Q 2011 increased 13% compared to $94.8 million in the 3Q 2010. Volumes increased 4%, led by growth in filtration, tape and wall cover. Operating income was $5.6 million in the 3Q 2011 compared to $7 million in the prior year period. Fine Paper segment's 3Q 2011 net sales of $67.8 million grew 2Q compared to $66.7 million in 2010. A 4% decline in volume, reflecting continued weak market conditions, was more than offset by a six percent gain in average selling prices. Operating income was $9.5 million in the 3Q 2011, growing 9% compared to $8.7 million in the prior year. Neenah Paper is a leader in premium and performance-based products used in a variety of applications. Its technical products business manufactures a variety of base substrates and applies saturating, coating and other surface treatments to make filtration media, backing and release papers, and other specialty materials for industrial and consumer applications. Neenah also produces premium fine papers for high-end printing and writing needs.