BASF Introduces Web Site to Promote Windows That Last Longer in North America
Oppanol® Polyisobutylenes key ingredient in thermoplastic spacer system technology
FLORHAM PARK, NJ, February 20, 2009 -- BASF has launched a new Web site, www2.basf.us/pib_derivatives/windows, to promote the benefits of thermoplastic spacer systems (TPS) for windows used in residential, commercial and institutional construction.
TPS systems are manufactured by companies such as ADCO Global Inc., Chicago, Illinois, which uses Oppanol® Polyisobutylenes (PIBs) from BASF as adhesive ingredients.
"BASF is promoting TPS technology because it is a sustainable solution for new generations of windows," said Timea Marsalko, Ph.D., Business Manager, Performance Chemicals, for BASF in North America. "We are offering useful information for homeowners, commercial owners, architects, builders and window manufacturers about the energy efficiency and durability of TPS."
The Web site includes a link to a summary of an eco-efficiency analysis conducted by BASF which indicates that windows with TPS technology are better for the environment and have lower lifecycle costs than competitive technologies.
Windows made with TPS meet future Energy Star® requirements. As Energy Star performance levels demand better performance of windows in 2012, TPS improves the energy efficiency of windows to help meet these new standards.
TPS technology can contribute to points for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System(TM) certification in the categories of energy and atmosphere Credit 1 (Optimize Energy Performance), indoor environmental quality Credit 4.1 (Low Emitting
Materials: Adhesives & Sealants), and innovation in design.
"TPS replaces metal-based spacers that actually allow heat to be drawn out of a building during the winter, and heat from the sun to be conducted into a building during the summer," said Marsalko. "TPS is flexible, so windows are better able to accommodate stress and reduce the possibility of shattering from wind or other acts of nature."
TPS spacers are applied by automated machinery that results in the efficient manufacture of standard and custom-made insulated glass units.
Lenhardt Maschinenbau GmbH, a regional subsidiary of Bystronic Glass, Hamberg, Germany, developed the equipment and is responsible for production and market support in the North American region.
Oppanol PIBs are flexible, waterproof, durable, and resistant to UV radiation. They enable windows with TPS technology to be built in virtually any shape or size, to fit any type of window frame - including wood, vinyl, fiberglass and aluminum. For more information about Oppanol PIBs, visit www2.basf.us/pib_derivatives.
BASF's eco-efficiency analysis is a strategic tool, based on the ISO 14040 standard for lifecycle analysis, which quantifies the sustainability of products or processes. It is a comprehensive comparison of two or more products analyzed from the end use perspective. BASF's eco-efficiency analysis tool was developed jointly with an external consultant in 1996. So far, more than 380 eco-efficiency studies have been completed globally for customers, suppliers and regulatory agencies. The methodology was validated by TÃœV, an independent company that certifies the safety and quality of new and existing products, systems and services.
For more information contact:
John C. Schmidt
BASF Corporation
Tel: (973) 245-6405
E-mail: john.schmidt@basf.com
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BASF Corporation, headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has more than 15,000 employees in North America, and had sales of approximately $16.4 billion in 2007. For more information about BASF's North American operations, or to sign up to receive news releases by e-mail, visit http://www.basf.com/usa.
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