Dow Corning purchased 100 percent of Globe Metais Indústria e Comércio S.A., a silicon metal manufacturer in Pará, Brazil, which will immediately begin operating as Dow Corning Metais do Pará Ltda.

Dow Corning has also acquired a 49 percent interest in Globe Metallurgical Inc.'s silicon manufacturing operation in Alloy, West Virginia (U.S.A.), WVA Manufacturing LLC. The operation will continue to operate as WVA Manufacturing LLC.

Dow Corning, a global leader in silicone-based materials, relies on chemical grade silicon as an essential raw material to manufacture nearly all of its more than 7,000 products.

'These acquisitions offer Dow Corning an even more efficient and stable supply of silicon metal,' said Robert Hansen, Dow Corning's executive vice president and general manager of Core Products. 'This is yet another step to position ourselves to better serve our customers' needs.'

Silicones are important building blocks for products in the construction, personal care, life sciences, energy, automotive and electronics industries, among others.

About Dow Corning

Dow Corning (www.dowcorning.com) provides performance-enhancing solutions to serve the diverse needs of more than 25,000 customers worldwide. A global leader in silicones, silicon-based technology and innovation, Dow Corning offers more than 7,000 products and services via the company's Dow Corning® and XIAMETER® brands. Dow Corning is equally owned by The Dow Chemical Company and Corning, Incorporated. More than half of Dow Corning's annual sales are outside the United States.

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The Dow-BASF innovation offers distinct economic and environmental benefits when compared to conventional propylene oxide (PO) process technologies. A joint eco-efficiency study conducted by the two companies in 2007 revealed the new HPPO process reduces wastewater by 70 to 80 percent and energy use by approximately 35 percent, compared with existing PO technology. PO plants using the HPPO technology also require up to 25 percent less capital to build than conventional technologies, as they have reduced infrastructure, a smaller physical footprint and simpler raw materials integration.

"We see two very important factors required to solve world challenges - innovation and collaboration - coming together in this example," said Neil Hawkins, Dow's vice president of Sustainability and EH&S. "It will require new technology and partnering like this between companies, governments, NGOs and communities to secure our sustainable future."

"We are proud to have such an outstanding example of research and development," said Stefan Deibel, vice president of BASF's Polyurethanes division. "This state-of-the-art technology combines economic success with improved environmental performance."

In 2008, Dow and BASF successfully started up the first commercial-scale production plant based on the novel BASF/Dow-developed HPPO technology at BASF's Antwerp, Belgium, facility. A second plant based on this technology, being built by Dow, is scheduled to begin production in Map Ta Phut, Thailand, in the first half of 2011.

About Dow

Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the 'Human Element' to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in approximately 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. In 2008, Dow had annual sales of $57.4 billion and employed approximately 46,000 people worldwide. The Company has 150 manufacturing sites in 35 countries and produces approximately 3,300 products. On April 1, 2009, Dow acquired Rohm and Haas Company, a global specialty materials company with sales of $10 billion in 2008, 98 manufacturing sites in 30 countries and approximately 15,000 employees worldwide. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com.

About Dow PO/PG

Dow is the world's largest producer of propylene oxide (PO), polyether polyols, and is a leading producer of quality aromatic isocyanates, such as MDI and TDI, an essential component of polyether polyols. The business manufactures and markets polyurethane products and polyurethane systems that create rigid, semi-rigid and flexible foams, adhesives, sealants, coatings, elastomers and binders. Dow's polyurethane products and fully-formulated polyurethane systems are used for a broad range of applications including construction, infrastructure repair, wind energy solutions, automotive, appliance, furniture, bedding and shoe soles to decorative molding, athletic equipment and more. Dow also offers the latest in polyol technology with RENUVA™ Renewable Resource Technology and VORANOL™ VORACTIV™ polyols, part of an ongoing initiative by Dow to lead the industry in providing high-performance products. For more information, visit www.dowpolyurethanes.com, www.pusystems.com, www.dowhyperlast.com, www.dowpg.com, www.dowpo.com, www.dowrenuva.com and www.voractiv.com.

About BASF

BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics and performance products to agricultural products, fine chemicals as well as oil and gas. As a reliable partner BASF helps its customers in virtually all industries to be more successful. With its high-value products and intelligent solutions, BASF plays an important role in finding answers to global challenges such as climate protection, energy efficiency, nutrition and mobility. BASF posted sales of more than €62 billion in 2008 and had approximately 97,000 employees as of the end of the year. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com

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The technical center is located in Goregaon, a suburb of Mumbai, and is shared by Wacker Chemie India Pvt. Ltd., a 100 percent subsidiary, and the joint venture Wacker Metroark Chemicals Pvt. Ltd, where WACKER holds 51 percent of the shares. A few weeks ago, the sales subsidiaries moved into a newly constructed building with offices covering about 11,000 square feet (1,000 m2). The new center will offer WACKER POLYMERS' and WACKER SILICONES' customers support in developing new products and product applications for the Indian market, and in conducting comparative lab testing of construction products with regards to locally available raw materials, climatic conditions and regional construction methods.

The focus is on VINNAPAS® dispersible polymer powder formulations for manufacturing polymer-modified dry-mix mortars for the regional construction industry. Additional products to be emphasized are polymer dispersions, silicone emulsions, silicone resins, silanes and sealants. Bundling a sales and technical center under one roof enables closer teamwork between the sales and development teams, resulting in optimal customer support.

Vigorous growth in India's economy, particularly in the construction and coatings sector, prompted setting up this new technical center. With it, WACKER wants to bolster its technological leadership in top-quality chemical raw materials. 'The Mumbai technical center is another important milestone in our growth strategy for Asia and particularly India,' explained Dr. Willhelm Sittenthaler, WACKER Executive Board member responsible for Asia, at the opening ceremony. The objective is to meet the individual needs of Indian customers locally and to support and test new applications, added Sittenthaler. In this way, the Munich-based WACKER Group intends to further consolidate and expand its market position in collaboration with customers. Like its counterparts in Germany, the USA, Russia, China, Korea, Singapore, Brazil, Australia and the United Arab Emirates, the new center in Mumbai will serve to establish a strong technical support network for developing individual, tailor-made solutions locally. The technical center Mumbai is furnished with state-of-the-art laboratory and test equipment. But, that's not all: the 'WACKER House' itself also serves as a reference and demonstration object – as most of the products used in constructing the building contained WACKER technologies. These range from polymer-modified tile adhesives and grout mortars, self-leveling compounds, polymer-based wood and carpet glues, silicone sealants to seal windows and doors, silicone resin emulsion paints for the exterior façade to dispersion paints for indoor use and cyclodextrin-fragrance-complexes in the wall paints.

Another highlight is the integral training center for the field of construction chemicals: the WACKER ACADEMY. Its purpose is to promote the transfer of knowledge to local customers, applicators and business partners. Catering to the specific needs of the Indian construction chemicals sector, its curriculum provides an opportunity to learn about all relevant aspects of modern polymer and silicone chemistry and their applications. Close proximity to the applications labs fosters a lively exchange of expertise and lays the optimal groundwork for customer service. Thus, the WACKER ACADEMY offers an ideal platform for sector-specific networking between customers, distribution partners and WACKER specialists.

The WACKER Group has already been supplying chemicals to India since the 1970s. In 1998, the joint venture Wacker Metroark Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. has been established in Kolkata, as early as 1999, the site started up production of different silicone products. The local subsidiary, Wacker Chemie India Pvt. Ltd., was founded in 2007 in response to increasing market demands and potentials.

WACKER POLYMERS
WACKER POLYMERS is a leading producer of state-of-the-art binders and polymer additives in the form of dispersible polymer powders and dispersions, polyvinyl acetates, surface coating resins and polyvinyl alcohol solutions. These products are used by companies in the construction, automotive, paper and adhesives sectors, as well as by manufacturers of printing inks and surface coatings. WACKER POLYMERS has production sites in Germany, China and the USA, as well as a global sales network and technical centers in all major regions.

WACKER SILICONES
WACKER SILICONES is one of the world's largest silicone manufacturers, with over 3,000 highly specialized and innovative products. The division's portfolio ranges from silicone fluids, emulsions, resins, elastomers and sealants to silanes and pyrogenic silicas. These products stand out due to their significant value-adding potential – enhancing both the benefits and performance of customers' end products. Silicone products from WACKER SILICONES find application in such sectors as construction, chemicals, cosmetics, textiles, automotive, paper and electronics.

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Westmont, NJ

Recently a contractor from Washington was fined tens of thousands of dollars by environmental regulators in Oregon for violating asbestos regulations during an abatement project. The contractor has appealed the fine according to reports from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

The Clean Air Act and the National Emission Standard for Hazardous Air Pollutants require contractors to follow certain steps during projects that involve asbestos. These requirements include actions that must be taken before work commences, during renovations and to ensure proper waste disposal.

The contractor has been accused of multiple violations related to an asbestos abatement project the contractor was involved with at a retirement facility. According to the DEQ the contractor did not complete all the required documentation and removed containment materials before sampling the air quality. This is the second time this year this contractor has faced fines from the DEQ over asbestos violations.

Asbestos can be found in a wide range of common building materials from insulation, flooring, ceilings, roofing, siding to even fire coating materials. During abatement projects asbestos can be easily aerosolized which creates a dangerous environment for workers and building occupants. Without the proper safety precautions asbestos can easily be inhaled during renovation projects which could increase one's chance of developing lung cancer. Cancers associated with asbestos exposure can take up to decades to appear.

EMSL Analytical, one of the nation's largest asbestos testing laboratories, has been providing asbestos testing services since 1981. 'EMSL strongly encourages contractors to have suspect building materials tested before any renovations or abatement projects begin,' reported Joe Frasca, Executive Vice President for EMSL Analytical. 'It is a quick and cost effective way to ensure materials are handled safely to protect workers, building occupants and to prevent costly fines,' Frasca continued.

To learn more about asbestos testing or other testing needs please visit www.EMSL.com, email info@EMSL.com or call (800) 220-3675.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of consumer product, environmental, industrial hygiene, food and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

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Third Quarter 2009 Highlights

* Revenues for the third quarter of 2009 were $2,108 million, an increase of 13% compared to $1,866 million for the second quarter of 2009 and a decrease of 23% compared to $2,731 million for the third quarter of 2008.
* Adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter of 2009 was $200 million compared to $96 million for the second quarter of 2009 and $194 million for the third quarter of 2008.
* Net loss attributable to Huntsman Corporation for the third quarter of 2009 was $68 million or $0.29 loss per diluted share compared to net income attributable to Huntsman Corporation of $406 million or $1.51 per diluted share for the second quarter of 2009 and net loss attributable to Huntsman Corporation of $20 million or $0.09 loss per diluted share for the third quarter of 2008. Adjusted net loss for the third quarter of 2009 was $55 million or $0.24 loss per diluted share, impacted by an unusually high adjusted effective tax rate (more than 300%, due to tax valuation allowances) which more than offset adjusted positive pretax earnings of $27 million(1)—we believe our long term effective tax rate is 35%. This compares to adjusted net loss of $64 million or $0.27 loss per diluted share for the second quarter of 2009 and adjusted net loss of $2 million or $0.01 loss per diluted share for the third quarter of 2008.
* On October 16, 2009, we terminated our existing short term (364 day) accounts receivable securitization program that was scheduled to mature November, 2009. We replaced it with two new multi-year securitization programs (a U.S. program and a European program).
* On September 27, 2009, we announced that our styrenics operations in West Footscray, Australia would be closed. This site closure completes our process of exiting all commodity polymer businesses. This operation represents less than 2% of our 2008 global sales, and posted an adjusted EBITDA loss of almost $24 million for 2008, based on an operating loss of approximately $29 million less impairment charges of $5 million.
* On August 31, 2009, we announced we had entered into a 'stalking horse' asset and equity purchase agreement with Tronox Incorporated. The agreement provides for the purchase out of bankruptcy of certain titanium dioxide and electrolytics production facilities, as well as a joint venture interest, for $415 million including working capital. We expect a decision by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in early December 2009.
* On July 23, 2009, we redeemed all $296 million principal amount of our outstanding 11.625% senior secured notes due 2010 and on August 3, 2009, we redeemed all $198 million principal amount of our outstanding 11.5% senior notes due 2012. This debt reduction eliminated all meaningful debt maturities until 2013 other than our accounts receivable securitization programs.

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'We are encouraged by this approval and look forward to continued progress of biotech approvals in the EU,' said Pioneer Hi-Bred President Paul E. Schickler. 'We urge the Commission and EU Member States to similarly approve biotech crops for cultivation so Europe's farmers have access to the same technologies as other farmers around the world.'

Products containing the stacked trait (59122/NK603) were assessed to be safe for use in food and feed by the EU's own independent scientific authority, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), in December 2008, and already have been approved in eight countries around the world. Pending publication in the Official Journal in the coming days, this product now is authorized for import into the EU in accordance with EU regulations, including the appropriate labeling and traceability of the products and their derivatives.

Herculex® RW contains the Bt trait to provide an environmentally improved means of protecting corn plants against attacks by the corn rootworm by reducing the need to use insecticides. The Roundup Ready® Corn 2 gene allows growers to effectively and efficiently control weeds in their fields, allowing the corn plants to achieve their full yield potential.

'These approvals tell us that the EU recognizes both the benefits of our biotech products, the extensive health and safety research that supports their use – and the importance of a functioning regulatory approval process for food and feed authorizations to ensure that European livestock products have continued access to these products,' said Dow AgroSciences President and CEO Antonio Galindez.

The Herculex® RW, Roundup Ready® Corn 2 stack was developed from traditional breeding methods of two genetically modified corn lines (59122 maize and NK603 maize) and contains no new genetic modifications. Herculex® RW and Roundup Ready® Corn 2 were approved by the EU for food, feed, import and processing in October 2007 and March 2005, respectively.

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Peter Huntsman, President and CEO of Huntsman Corporation, stated: 'We are pleased with the favorable outcome of FTC's review and that our agreement with Tronox can move quickly to closing upon successful conclusion of the auction process, which we believe will be received favorably by the customers, vendors, employees and other stakeholders of the combined business.'

Huntsman and Tronox continue to work towards completion of comparable approval processes in other jurisdictions.

Tronox and certain of the company's subsidiaries filed voluntary petitions for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code on January 12, 2009. Huntsman subsequently signed an asset and equity purchase agreement with Tronox to become a 'stalking horse' bidder for certain of the company's assets. A stalking horse bid is a binding proposal for a bankrupt company's assets from an interested buyer chosen by the bankrupt company, subject to a higher offer through an auction process approved by the bankruptcy court. If Huntsman is ultimately approved by the bankruptcy court as the buyer and the sale is approved, Huntsman's completion of the proposed acquisition of the assets of Tronox as agreed remains subject to customary antitrust and other regulatory approvals.

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As part of a technical paper on polyetheramines as polyurea raw materials, Dr. Stephan Goettke, Project Manager New Business Development Polyurea in BASF's Intermediates division, will discuss the product category of polytetrahydrofuranamines. This class of amines developed by BASF enables the production of coatings that are highly elastic and that also exhibit enhanced mechanical properties in contact with water and humidity.

Cees Moorman, Business Team Leader in BASF's polyurethane system house at Boxtel in the Netherlands, will report on the development of a sound-absorbing polyurea coating. He will also explain how polyurea coatings can help to meet new legal requirements in hazardous goods storage facilities.

BASF is a strong partner for formulators and users in the polyurea business. The company offers raw materials as well as ready-made formulations. As a major world supplier of chemical intermediates, BASF has an extensive range of polyetheramines, cycloaliphatic amines and isocyanates. A new cycloaliphatic amine branded Baxxodur® PC136 is especially interesting: This chain extender enables the final properties of the polyurea coating, like high elasticity and resistance to extreme temperatures and loads, to be achieved much faster than with traditional products. Through its polyurethane system houses BASF offers its portfolio of Elastocoat© C branded systems as customized solutions for the most diverse applications, from roof coatings to containment bunds. Along with its specific formulations, the company provides technical support to acquaint first-time users with the new technology.

Diverse applications for polyurea systems

Polyurea systems are used as spray coatings in various industrial applications. For example, the systems lend themselves to the construction of industrial buildings, roads and bridges; to hard landscaping and interior fitting. Unlike other spray coatings, polyurea technology offers the advantage of being able to be applied in humid and low-temperature outdoor conditions. Polyurea coatings cure within a matter of minutes and are particularly resistant to chemicals, high temperatures and mechanical strain. Thanks to their elasticity, they readily bridge cracks and adhere superbly to a wide variety of surfaces.

About BASF Polyurethanes

BASF is the leading supplier of polyurethane basic products, systems and specialties. With its global network of more than thirty polyurethane system houses and its comprehensive product and service portfolio, BASF is the preferred partner of its customers in many industries. In the extremely service-oriented business with polyurethane systems and specialties reliability, experience and competence are in demand. Through its system houses BASF provides fast local support – from technical service and sales to marketing – during the development of customized solutions. With its world-scale plants BASF secures its leading market position in the manufacture of polyurethane basic products in all regions of the world. Polyurethanes make life more comfortable, safer and more pleasant – and they help to save energy sustainably. They contribute towards an improved insulation of buildings and a more attractive and more light-weight design of cars. The manufacturers of shoe soles, mattresses and household as well as sports equipment use the manifold opportunities and advantages of this special plastics material together with the knowledge and expertise of the polyurethane experts of BASF world-wide.

About the Intermediates division

The BASF Group's Intermediates division develops, produces and markets around the world a comprehensive portfolio of more than 600 intermediates. The most important of the division's product groups include amines, diols, polyalcohols, acids and specialties. Among other applications, intermediates are used as starting materials for coatings, plastics, pharmaceuticals, textile fibers, detergents and crop protectants. Innovative intermediates from BASF help to improve the properties of final products and the efficiency of production processes. The ISO 9001:2000-certified Intermediates division operates plants at production sites in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Around the globe, 2,655 employees of the division generated sales of about €2.5 billion to third parties in 2008. For more information, go to http://www.basf.de/intermediates .

About BASF

BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics and performance products to agricultural products, fine chemicals and oil and gas. As a reliable partner BASF helps its customers in virtually all industries to be more successful. With its high-value products and intelligent solutions, BASF plays an important role in finding answers to global challenges such as climate protection, energy efficiency, nutrition and mobility. BASF posted sales of more than €62 billion in 2008 and had approximately 97,000 employees as of the end of the year. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

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LEHIGH VALLEY, Pa.– Air Products (NYSE: APD) today has opened its new specialty amines plant in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China. The facility complements its existing local capabilities to support customers in the growing polyurethane additives and epoxy markets.

Located in the Nanjing Chemical Industry Park (NCIP), the new state-of-the-art specialty amines plant is a multi-reactor, multi-purpose facility designed to manufacture many of the amine chemistries marketed by the business globally. Air Products has already built and operates two large air separation plants and a pipeline system to serve customers in the NCIP.

'China is a high growth region for the world and for Air Products. China's growth and domestic development in key markets and industries, such as construction, coatings, and automobile production, make this an important place for us to be focused on for growth and new business. We are honored to build our new capability in the world-class Nanjing Chemical Industry Park and participate in the development of Jiangsu Province,' said John E. McGlade, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Air Products at the opening ceremony. 'The new specialty amines plant is another strategic investment that Air Products has made in China to better serve our customers with the range of performance materials and technologies that meet global performance standards and enable local companies to continue to grow and support development of their industries.'

The new specialty amines plant has significantly strengthened the supply chain capabilities of Air Products' Performance Materials business in China and throughout Asia. Other strategic capabilities that the company has built for its Performance Materials business include a technology center in Shanghai's Zhangjiang Industrial Park; a triethylenediamine(TEDA) manufacturing facility for polyurethane additives in Changzhou; warehouses in Changzhou, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Nanjing; plus a strong local team to serve both China and Asian customers.

The plant has also enhanced Air Products' ability to supply differentiated products which can be formulated locally to meet local needs. The initial focus will be on several performance-oriented products marketed by Air Products' epoxy additive and polyurethane additive product lines, including the Polycat® and Dabco® series of amine catalysts, and Ancamine® , Ancamide® and Sunmide® series of epoxy curing agents used in diverse industries, such as coatings, inks, adhesives, construction, appliance and automotive.

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Monheim.– Bayer CropScience announced today the completion of its purchase of Athenix Corp., a privately-held independent biotechnology company headquartered in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA. The company was purchased for USD 365 Million (about EUR 250 million). Further cash payments based upon the achievement of certain development milestones may amount up to USD 35 million (about EUR 24 million).

The acquisition of Athenix and its innovative technology platform significantly boosts Bayer CropScience's ability to make available to growers worldwide novel technology and complete agricultural solutions. Athenix has an extensive herbicide tolerance and insect control trait development platform. The company has the largest collection of Bt genes in the industry – genes that are crucial for insect resistance of plants. Athenix is working on nematode resistance as well, a field where current chemical options are limited. Additionally, the company has a valuable collection of proprietary microbes that will provide a long-term source of novel and commercially important genes for future trait development.

Bayer CropScience is currently already pursuing a total of 56 BioScience research projects involving six crops. The acquisition bolsters this research and development (R&D)-pipeline and the trait platform of Bayer CropScience. Athenix complements the fast growing BioScience business of Bayer CropScience by significantly extending its R&D-presence in North America. Athenix employs some of the world's leading researchers in the agricultural biotech industry and has a workforce of about 65 employees who have extensive expertise in commercial gene discovery, commercial trait generation, and product development.

The acquisition will allow Bayer CropScience to strengthen its attractiveness as a partner to other stakeholders in the seed business worldwide. It will generate additional trait fee income beyond the income streams from Bayer CropScience`s current trait technology due to license agreements with major agricultural companies. Bayer CropScience already expects the combined sales potential of its four most important licensing agreements, which will bear fruit in the coming years, to exceed EUR 500 million – and Athenix will add further to this revenue stream from the middle of next decade.

'We are investing heavily in our BioScience business to strengthen our position in the global seeds and traits market', said Professor Friedrich Berschauer, Chairman of the Board of Management of Bayer CropScience. 'Within the last year, we have announced business expansions involving three new state-of-the-art research and development facilities in the United States and Canada. Athenix is a leading independent plant biotechnology company. The acquisition of Athenix therefore underpins this expansion, and allows Bayer CropScience to further expand its strong research and development capacity in North America, the most important seed technology market of the world.'

'We are pleased to become part of Bayer CropScience, a global agribusiness leader that is fundamentally driven by the spirit and practice of innovation. The combined talents and capabilities of Bayer CropScience and Athenix will serve to accelerate the market introduction of highly innovative new products for farmers worldwide that will directly address the global demand for superior agricultural productivity,' said Mike Koziel, Chief Executive Officer for Athenix.

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BASF now offers a new and patented version of the foam Neopolen® P (EPP: expanded polypropylene) for devices used in heating, ventilation and sanitary systems. The metallic-gray Neopolen P 9335 mg is noted for its thermal insulation which is 10 percent better than standard EPP. Thanks to the versatile properties of the new product, foamed Neopolen P molded parts are able to perform several functions at the same time: The foam serves as efficient shock-absorbing packaging for transportation, supports the device as constructive carrier and replaces the metal housing because it can be processed into thermally insulating housings with an aesthetic surface. Neopolen P 9335 mg thus helps to meet the energy standards of low-energy houses and for the renovation of older buildings.

Several functions in one

This presents new design options for devices such as heat exchangers and solar storing units. Neopolen P 9335 mg can be used to foam highly resilient, elastic molded parts which replace conventional metal or injection-molded housings. Without any elaborate mold design, undercuts can be produced in the foam component easily and cost-effectively. This provides new options for integrating additional functions into the housing such as airflow channels or assembly fixings. As a result, the required number of components can be reduced to a minimum. The thermal and electronic units are fastened directly into the viscoplastic Neopolen P housing. Thus, they cannot be damaged during transportation.

When in use, the device is also thermally insulated in an efficient way. The polymer matrix of Neopolen P 9335 mg contains infrared absorbers which reflect thermal radiation like a mirror and thus considerably reduce the heat transfer compared to conventional EPP. Neopolen P is temperature-resistant from -40°C to +100°C.

Designed surfaces

Thanks to new tooling technologies, the foam can be processed in such a way that high-quality surfaces are produced without the typical particle foam look and without nozzle imprints. The foam beads which expand uniformly adapt to the modified mold surface and as a result generate a homogeneous, aesthetic designed surface, for example with a leather look.

Neopolen P – versatile and environmentally friendly

Neopolen P 9335 mg is a specialty foam from the tried-and-tested Neopolen P product range. The expanded polypropylene (EPP) is noted for its very good shock absorption characteristics, low weight and high temperature resistance. The particle foam combines high energy absorption – even after several impacts – with excellent resilience and isotropic deformation performance. This interesting combination of properties, which also includes low water absorption and good resistance to chemicals, opens up a broad range of applications: from vehicle construction, packaging and transport containers to sports and leisure applications. Neopolen P is 100 percent recyclable. It is manufactured and processed without any CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons).

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Los Alamitos, CA

Regional water monitors in California recently announced that farmers in parts of the state will soon be required to finance all, or part, of the cost to monitor agricultural pollutants in area surface water. The California Regional Water Quality Control Board adopted the new rules in 2007 and they will go into effect in the next few years.

Runoff from farms and cropland can cause fertilizers, animal waste, pesticides and other toxins to pollute area water. According to the EPA, 'Agricultural nonpoint source (NPS) pollution is the leading source of water quality impacts to rivers and lakes.' Pollutants to be monitored will likely include nitrates, bacteria, phosphates and other contaminants.

The program requires farmers with more than $1,000 in gross crop sales to pay to sample the water quality in area lakes and streams. The San Diego region, which is also comprised of parts of Riverside and Orange counties, is included in this new regulation. According to some reports as many as 100 bodies of water in that region have suffered for various reasons, including agricultural pollutants.

San Diego County is composed of more small farmers than anywhere else in the state. The additional cost to them for this program could be a hardship on some small farmers following rising water costs and current low commodity prices. LA Testing and EMSL Analytical, leading environmental testing laboratories in the area, have been on the forefront of providing affordable water testing solutions for all types of pollutants.

'Both laboratories have a long history of providing these types of testing services in California to help protect people and the environment,' reported Ben Sublasky, National Director of Client Services for LA Testing and EMSL Analytical. 'Our water testing laboratories are an important resource for government agencies, farmers, industry and the general public,' Sublasky continued.

To learn more about water testing and other environmental services please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 755-1794.

About LA Testing and EMSL Analytical, Inc.
LA Testing and EMSL Analytical are providers of environmental testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The companies have an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

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Westmont, NJ

During the last year there have been numerous media reports about imported Chinese drywall causing unpleasant odors, damaging building materials and causing illnesses. On Sunday an expert on building inspections announced at a conference in Orlando that the defective drywall is also full of bacteria and fungus.

According to some reports the defective drywall is in as many as 100,000 homes nationwide. Up until now most drywall problems were related to the presence of iron disulfide (FeS2 pyrite). Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbonyl sulfide, sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon disulfide (CS2) have also been suspected as culprits.

The building expert reported that the bacteria in the drywall is most alarming and isn't found in drywall manufactured elsewhere. According to the speaker the bacteria is feeding on organic matter in the drywall and that in return is producing the sulfur gases that have been reported to cause health problems and material corrosion in homes across the country.

EMSL Analytical, one of the nation's premier environmental and materials testing laboratories, has been actively involved in testing suspect drywall. EMSL Analytical developed a procedure that can accurately compare certain sulfur gasses contained in suspect drywall samples versus control samples. The laboratory can also provide complete bacterial and fungal analysis of any drywall samples to determine if microorganisms are present.

'This latest report of additional problems with Chinese drywall should make homeowners take notice,' reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President at EMSL Analytical. 'If you suspect your home was constructed with the defective material we suggest you have the drywall tested to determine if it is causing problems in your home,' he continued.

EMSL Analytical is a national leader in materials and indoor air quality testing services. For more information about drywall testing or other testing needs please contact EMSL Analytical at (800)220-3675, visit www.EMSL.com or email info@EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a leading, national provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

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MORRIS TOWNSHIP, N.J.– Honeywell (NYSE: HON) announced today that its Genetron® R-245fa refrigerant is being used to help homeowners generate electricity from the sun's heat while offsetting energy costs.

Honeywell's energy-efficient refrigerant is being used in an organic rankine cycle (ORC) called the 35Z Micro Power Plant, manufactured by Germany-based Turbolina GmbH & Co. KG. The 35Z Micro Power Plant has a unique design that uses water heated by thermal solar panels to evaporate the refrigerant, which in turn drives a turbine to generate electricity. Because no fuel is burned to create the electricity, the unit does not produce any carbon dioxide emissions. The remaining heat from the 35Z can be used to supply heating and hot water.

'When we began designing the 35Z, we knew we needed a reliable, low-temperature working fluid, and Honeywell's R-245fa refrigerant was the perfect choice,' said Hermann Helmbold, General Manager of Turbolina. 'The 35Z is a source of energy that helps homeowners both reduce their carbon emissions and become independent from traditional sources of energy.'

R-245fa is non-flammable, non-ozone-depleting and has low toxicity. The heat transfer properties of Honeywell's R-245fa, including its low boiling point of 59.5 F (15.3 C), makes it ideal for use in ORC systems that use low-temperature heat and waste heat to generate electricity.

'This unique application is a great example of how Honeywell technologies are helping homeowners become more energy-efficient,' said David Diggs, global business director for Honeywell Fluorine Products.

The 35Z offers an electrical power output of 3.5kW, which is ideally suited to the needs of homeowners. Turbolina specializes in the development, production and sale of ORC systems that convert low temperature heat into electricity. The company offers ORC technology in sizes up to 500KW to meet the needs of differing heat recovery opportunities.

Honeywell is a recognized, leading innovator in advanced energy-efficiency refrigerants for heating, ventilation and air conditioning, as well as other heat transfer fluid applications. Honeywell has consistently helped manufacturers replace ozone-depleting substances and has ongoing research and development efforts to develop environmentally superior solutions for customers around the world.

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Los Alamitos, CA

Popcorn ceilings, also referred to as acoustic ceilings, are found in many homes across the country. From the late 1950s all the way until the early 1980s the ceiling style was popular. Today many property owners have been removing the outdated ceilings and replacing them with flat or textured ceilings to update the look and feel of the property.

Not only is the process of removing popcorn ceilings labor intensive and extremely messy there is a much bigger issue, asbestos. Asbestos can be found in many types of popcorn ceilings and the older paints used on the ceilings. As the ceilings are renovated the asbestos can be easily aerosolized and become a health hazard.

La Testing and EMSL Analytical, one of the nation's largest asbestos testing laboratory networks, advises property owners to get suspect ceiling materials tested before any renovations begin. This process can be done by hiring an asbestos professional or by carefully removing several small pieces of the ceiling material and sending them to a laboratory for testing. Before removing the small pieces of material it is advisable to first spray the area to be removed with water to minimize any asbestos from being aerosolized.

If the popcorn ceiling is found to contain asbestos it is strongly suggested that professionals who are qualified to deal with removing asbestos containing materials be used to ensure a safe project and to properly dispose of the asbestos containing waste.

'The dangers associated with asbestos in popcorn ceilings are potentially in tens of thousands of homes across the nation,' reported Ben Sublasky, National Director of Client Services for LA Testing and EMSL Analytical. 'The deadly health effects associated with asbestos can take years or even decades to appear so it is important to test for asbestos and to have any renovations involving asbestos be handled by qualified professionals.'

To learn more about asbestos and other environmental testing services please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 755-1794.

About LA Testing and EMSL Analytical, Inc.
LA Testing and EMSL Analytical are providers of environmental testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The companies have an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

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CORNING, N.Y. – PerkinElmer Inc. and Corning Incorporated (NYSE: GLW), today announced that the two companies have entered into a strategic agreement to advance the development of next-generation label-free detection technologies.

The agreement will allow Corning and PerkinElmer to combine their world-class expertise in optical label-free and multi-modality detection to develop and deliver next-generation detection platforms for life sciences research. Label-free detection is an enabling technology targeted at addressing many of the challenges in early-stage lead optimization in the drug discovery process.

Dr. Richard M. Eglen, president, Bio-discovery, PerkinElmer, said, 'Collaborating with a world-renowned company such as Corning provides a key opportunity to combine Corning's innovative optical label-free detection technology with PerkinElmer's existing multi-label detection systems to provide drug discovery and life science researchers with deeper insights into biomolecular and cellular interactions.'

'Scientists around the world have used the optical label-free technology of the Corning® Epic® system for their groundbreaking research and we have been pleased with the new biological discoveries that the technology has enabled,' said Mark A. Beck, senior vice president, Corning Life Sciences. 'We are excited to be working with an industry leader like PerkinElmer to develop next-generation label-free technologies in order to create the potential for additional breakthrough discoveries.'

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Westmont, NJ

Earlier this year a new California law resulted in regulations for formaldehyde containing products in the state. Recently a federal bill was introduced to Congress that would set similar federal limits for formaldehyde products found in homes.

The bill would reduce indoor emissions of formaldehyde from particleboard, plywood and medium density fiberboard. All of these materials are commonly used in construction and in furniture and much of the formaldehyde that people are exposed to comes from these materials. Currently there are no federal standards for formaldehyde emissions in homes.

In recent years the health effects associated with formaldehyde exposure have brought to light the dangers from prolonged and repeated contact with the chemical. The major exposure risks associated with formaldehyde come from occupants inhaling contaminated air. Exposure to elevated levels of formaldehyde can trigger asthma attacks, nausea, watery eyes and difficulty breathing.

Formaldehyde has been shown to cause cancer in animals and according to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) formaldehyde may reasonably be anticipated to be a carcinogen. The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies formaldehyde as a carcinogen.

Due to these concerns, tests of furnishing and building materials for off-gassing is becoming a much more common practice to safeguard the health and safety of people. EMSL Analytical, one of the nation's premier formaldehyde testing laboratories, has facilities across the nation to help test for formaldehyde in air and off-gassing of materials and products.

'It is important that people are aware of the short and long term risks associated with formaldehyde,' reported Joe Frasca, Executive Vice President for EMSL Analytical. 'EMSL has developed an online video that demonstrates formaldehyde sampling techniques at www.EMSL.tv and has made available a free formaldehyde brochure that can be downloaded at www.EMSL.com,' Frasca continued.

To learn more about formaldehyde testing or other testing needs please email info@EMSL.com or call (800) 220-3675.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of consumer product, environmental, industrial hygiene, food and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

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Los Alamitos, CA

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that up to 24 million homes in the country contain substantial lead paint hazards. Even though the use of lead in paint has been banned since 1978 it is believed that about one in five homes still have lead paint hazards. As lead contaminated paints age they begin to deteriorate and can become airborne or settle as dust.

Lead is of particular concern to young children as their growing bodies can absorb more lead and their brain and nervous systems are more sensitive to the negative health effects. Children also tend to place their hands and objects in their mouths allowing for lead to easily enter their bodies. Lead can even harm babies before they are born. In fact according to the EPA, 'to reduce your child's exposure to lead, get your child checked, have your home tested and fix any hazards you may have.'

Federal stimulus money recently increased the amount of funds available for lead remediation by an additional $78 million. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides grants to municipalities to tackle lead contamination issues in homes. This funding is crucial as many unknowing property owners renovate their homes without proper precautions in place that can make the situation worse by creating lead laden dust.

LA Testing, an affiliate of EMSL Analytical, is a leading provider of lead testing laboratory services and products to clients across the West Coast. 'The dangers associated with lead poisoning are serious and should not be taken lightly,' reported Ben Sublasky, National Director of Client Services for LA Testing and EMSL Analytical. 'If not detected early, children with high levels of lead in their systems can suffer from stunted growth, learning problems, hearing issues, damaged nervous systems and diminished brain functions.'

To learn more about lead and other environmental testing services please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 755-1794.

About LA Testing and EMSL Analytical, Inc.
LA Testing and EMSL Analytical are providers of environmental testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The companies have an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

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• Syngenta venture capital investment subsidiary created
• First direct equity investment in Metabolon, U.S. biotech company

Syngenta Ventures announced today that it has made an equity investment in Metabolon, a privately-held U.S. biotechnology company focused on the use of metabolomics in research and diagnostics. This is the first direct investment by Syngenta Ventures, Syngenta's newly-established corporate venture capital subsidiary.

'The creation of Syngenta Ventures will complement our in-house R&D work and enables us to be even more involved in promising technologies and innovative products with external partners,' said Robert Berendes, Head of Business Development at Syngenta. 'We need access to the best available new technologies in order to achieve the increase in agricultural output which will be vital over the coming years.'

Sandro Aruffo, Head of Research and Development at Syngenta, added: 'This investment follows a research collaboration with Metabolon which has existed for some years. We believe Metabolon's unique metabolomics platform will be an increasingly important technology for the development of innovative new products in the agriculture industry.'

Metabolomics provides mechanistic insight and biochemical markers for complex biological processes. This technology aims to accelerate the development of plants with innovative new native and genetically modified traits.

Syngenta Ventures will take a seat on the Board of Metabolon. The equity investment was made in the Series C financing of Metabolon which raised in total $12.3 million from a number of investors, including Syngenta Ventures. Financial details of the equity investment were not disclosed.

About Syngenta
Syngenta is one of the world's leading companies with more than 24,000 employees in over 90 countries dedicated to our purpose: Bringing plant potential to life. Through world-class science, global reach and commitment to our customers we help to increase crop productivity, protect the environment and improve health and quality of life. For more information about us please go to www.syngenta.com

About Metabolon
Metabolon is a diagnostics and services company offering the industry's leading biochemical profiling platform. Metabolon's patented platform provides a global analysis of complex biological samples for the discovery of markers. This metabolomics-driven approach enables the identification of biomarkers useful for the development of a wide range of diagnostics and provides insight into complex biochemical processes such as drug action, toxicology and bioprocess optimization. For more information about Metabolon, please visit www.metabolon.com.

Syngenta Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This document contains forward-looking statements, which can be identified by terminology such as 'expect', 'would', 'will', 'potential', 'plans', 'prospects', 'estimated', 'aiming', 'on track' and similar expressions. Such statements may be subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from these statements. We refer you to Syngenta's publicly available filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for information about these and other risks and uncertainties. Syngenta assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, changed assumptions or other factors. This document does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer, to purchase or subscribe for any ordinary shares in Syngenta AG, or Syngenta ADSs, nor shall it form the basis of, or be relied on in connection with, any contract therefore.

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To make increasingly efficient electronic devices, the semiconductor industry must rely on new chip materials.

Ruthenium is one such material poised to become a crucial element, particularly in data storage and memories.

Ruthenium is notably used in manufacturing new generation hard disk reading heads based on a novel physical effect, known as giant magnetoresistance. Its discovery by Albert Fert (France) and Peter Grünberg (Germany) earned them both the Nobel Prize in Physics for 2007.

To develop these new reading heads, as well as memories and other electronic components, Air Liquide Group's research teams created and patented a new advanced precursor, ToRuSTM, which is used to deposit of very thin ruthenium layers only a few atoms thick. Today, ToRuSTM is used by several of the Group's customers.

At SEMICON Europa 2009, the results of votes cast by 25,000 professionals in the electronics industry designated ToRuSTM the winner of the Enabling Material prize, which recognizes inventions that allow for significant progress in electronic components manufacturing.

Air Liquide's Electronics activity recorded revenue of €1,044 million in 2008. Its sales were mostly ultra-pure gases, specialty gases, new molecules, equipment for the use of these products, and customized services.

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