Akzo Nobel makes strategic investment in polysulfide expansion

Akzo Nobel makes strategic investment in polysulfide expansion Arnhem, the Netherlands, May 16, 2001 - Akzo Nobel's business unit Plastics and Processing Additives (PPA), operating under the name Akcros Chemicals, the leading global player in the polysulfide market, will invest in a major expansion at its Greiz facility in Germany. Due for completion early in 2002, the expansion will provide additional polysulfide tonnage primarily for use in aerospace sealants and other high-tech, high added value applications. "This investment, which will substantially increase capacity, reaffirms our long-term commitment to the polysulfide market," said Kees van Nierop, General Manager of PPA. "We know that our proprietary technology gives us the ability to supply the highest quality polysulfide for use in high-end aircraft sealant and insulated glass applications. This expansion is consistent with our goals of strengthening our worldwide position and ensuring reliable supply to key customers in the high added value segments we serve," he added. PPA is a key supplier of polymer additives for the PVC industry and high performance polysulfide chemicals for sealants. While polysulfides are used in a variety of applications, PPA's market approach is focused primarily on sealant producers in the aircraft and construction industries. Market growth in these segments is in line with GDP in Europe and the USA, and is higher than GDP in Asia Pacific. - - - Note for the editor Akzo Nobel, based in the Netherlands, serves customers throughout the world with healthcare products, coatings and chemicals. Consolidated sales for 2000 totaled EUR 14 billion (USD 13 billion, GBP 8.5 billion). The Company currently employs 68,800 people in more than 75 countries. Financial results for the second quarter of 2001 will be published on July 25, 2001. Internet: http://www.akzonobel.com http://www.akcros.com For more information please contact: Plastics and Processing Additives: Mike Zeitler, Business Manager, tel. +31 475 356 346 ------------------------------------------------------------ This information was brought to you by BIT http://www.bit.se The following files are available for download: http://www.bit.se/bitonline/2001/05/16/20010516BIT00180/bit0003.doc http://www.bit.se/bitonline/2001/05/16/20010516BIT00180/bit0003.pdf