Rohm and Haas's Aquaset(TM) Technology Ranked in Top 10 for European Environmental Award 2007
MORGES, Switzerland--Dec. 4, 2007-Rohm and Haas's Aquaset(TM) technology received a Top 10 Ranking in this year's EEP 2007 award at the Pollutec Show in Paris. The award is presented by the European Environmental Press (EEP) group in association with EFAEP - the European Federation of Associations of Environmental Professionals - to companies who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to the environment by investing in, and developing innovative eco-sustainable technologies. Of the 72 initial entries submitted from across the whole European region, Rohm and Haas was placed within the Top 10.
Rohm and Haas's submission, presented by Ms. Nolwenn Colmou, Scientist, and Dr. Houshang Kheradmand, Product Steward and Sustainable Design Manager, Rohm and Haas Europe, was entitled "Aquaset(TM) - a new generation of formaldehyde free binders", and describes Rohm and Haas's Aquaset(TM) technology, a high-performance, environmentally-advanced and safe alternative to traditional formaldehyde-based thermoset binders.
Aquaset(TM) technology represents a new generation of heat curable binders that are made without formaldehyde or formaldehyde-generating materials that do not release formaldehyde under normal operating conditions. They are a safe, environmentally preferable alternative to formaldehyde binders like phenol-formaldehyde, urea-formaldehyde or melamine-formaldehyde binders used for mineral and synthetic fiber bonding. Aquaset(TM) technology is applicable in a wide variety of industries, particularly building and construction, as well as for the automotive and furniture industries. Aquaset(TM) binders can be favorably formulated from an acrylic resin and biodiesel production by-products such as glycerol and glycerol derivatives. This technology makes significant contributions to improved air quality. The importance of Aquaset(TM) was also recognized in 2006 when the American Chemistry Council awarded its Heroes of Chemistry Award to the research team that developed this technology.
Gray Wirth, Rohm and Haas European President, attending the ceremony in Paris, emphasised the Company's historical dedication to environmental sustainability - Rohm and Haas pioneered the concept of eco-sustainable coatings chemistry almost 40 years ago resulting in a huge positive environmental impact in the industries in which the Company serves. "It is an honour for us to be nominated one of the 10 finalists for this prestigious award", he said. "Rohm and Haas as a company continues to be dedicated to innovation and sustainability - 50% of our R&D budget for 2007 was dedicated to sustainable development projects. We are proud of our history of innovation in high-performance water-borne technologies - it's something we're definitely going to continue into the future. For us, we see environmental and economic benefits working hand in hand."
For more information about Aquaset(TM) technology, and its benefits, please click here or visit our website at www.rohmhaas.com.
About Rohm and Haas Company
Leading the way since 1909, Rohm and Haas is a global pioneer in the creation and development of innovative technologies and solutions for the specialty materials industry. The company's technologies are found in a wide range of industries including: Building and Construction, Electronics and Electronic Devices, Household Goods and Personal Care, Packaging and Paper, Transportation, Pharmaceutical and Medical, Water, Food and Food Related, and Industrial Process.
Innovative Rohm and Haas technologies and solutions help to improve life everyday, around the world. Based in Philadelphia, PA, the company generated annual sales of approximately $8.2 billion in 2006.
Visit www.rohmhaas.com for more information. imagine the possibilities(TM)
About Rohm and Haas Paint and Coatings Materials
This business is the world's leading supplier of materials used by the global coatings industry; no competitor can offer this range of technology, along with the capability to provide customized products in all four regions. It includes acrylic emulsion binders and additives for decorative architectural paints used by do-it-yourself consumers and professional contractors. Industrial materials serve as the foundation for industrial coatings, caulks and sealants, home insulation and floor care products.
CONTACT: Rachel Redshaw
European Communications Manager
Rohm and Haas Paint and Coatings Materials
Tel: +44 1829 770353
Email: rredshaw@rohmhaas.com
