Huntsman introduces phthalate-free, soft TPUs

The Woodlands, TX – The Polyurethanes division of Huntsman Corporation (NYSE:HUN) announced today the introduction of two new grades of patented, unplasticized, soft thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs).  IROGRAN® A60E4902 is a Shore 55A polyester, and IROGRAN® A65P4910 is a Shore 65A polyether. The exemplary feature of these grades is that they achieve a very soft Shore hardness through the basic chemistry of the TPU formulations, without the use of plasticizers or other modifiers, making them ideal for PVC replacement where the presence of phthalates or other plasticizers may be an issue.
 
Due to their unplasticized formulations, the materials are not tacky, do not exude a surface film, and maintain these characteristics and properties without the prospect of migration. They also have excellent drape and hand with a very supple feel.

Other key properties and characteristics of the TPUs are:

• Exceptional resiliency, with high elastic recovery
• Low extractables
• High clarity, low yellowness index
• Good abrasion, tear, and elongation
• Excellent processing with fast cycling
• IROGRAN® A60E4902 is USP Class VI compliant

Both IROGRAN® A60E4902 and A65P4910 grades are formulated for technical extrusion, injection molding, and film processing. They can also be solvated for cast film and dip molding. With exceptional softness and outstanding resiliency, these resins are ideal in a variety of applications, including: overmolding, toys, tubing, PVC & silicone replacement, gaskets, and compounding, to name just a few.

For additional information contact Steven Stoll, Senior Technical Sales, phone +1 248 322 7496, email  steven_stoll@huntsman.com, or visit www.huntsman.com/tpu.

IROGRAN® is a registered trademark of Huntsman Corporation in one or more, but not necessarily all, countries.

About Huntsman:
Huntsman is a global manufacturer and marketer of differentiated chemicals.  Its operating companies manufacture products for a variety of global industries, including chemicals, plastics, automotive, aviation, textiles, footwear, paints and coatings, construction, technology, agriculture, health care, detergent, personal care, furniture, appliances and packaging.  Originally known for pioneering innovations in packaging and, later, for rapid and integrated growth in petrochemicals, Huntsman today has 13,000 employees and operates from multiple locations worldwide.  The Company had 2007 revenues of approximately $10 billion.  For more information about Huntsman, please visit the company’s website at www.huntsman.com.

Forward Looking Statement:
Statements in this release that are not historical are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on management’s current beliefs and expectations. The forward-looking statements in this release are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances and involve risks and uncertainties that may affect the company’s operations, markets, products, services, prices and other factors as discussed in the Huntsman companies’ filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Significant risks and uncertainties may relate to, but are not limited to, financial, economic, competitive, environmental, political, legal, regulatory and technological factors.  In addition, the completion of any transactions described in this release is subject to a number of uncertainties and closing will be subject to approvals and other customary conditions. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that such transactions will be completed or that the company’s expectations will be realized. The company assumes no obligation to provide revisions to any forward-looking statements should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by applicable laws.

Contact:
Gary Chapman
Tel: +1 281 719 4324