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News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
12 October 2010
CONTACTS:
Simone Richter
+49 (0) 541 91 41 207
HUNTSMAN STEPS FORWARD WITH PLASTICIZER-FREE TPU FOR FOOTWEAR SECTOR
New product to be launched at SIMAC 2010
Stand A18 from 12-14 October 2010 at Bologna Fiera, Bologna, Italy
OSNABRUCK, Germany – Huntsman Polyurethanes has developed a complete plasticizer-free
thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) for the footwear industry that has a shore hardness of 65A.
AVALON® 65AS has been developed for use in the production of eco-label casual shoes, children’s
footwear and safety boots. It will be unveiled to the sector at international trade fair SIMAC in
Bologna in mid October.
Adding to Huntsman’s established range of soft, durable, injection moldable materials, AVALON®
65AS offers good anti-slip resistance and perfect bonding to midsole PU-systems. It is a cost
effective solution that can be processed on standard injection molding equipment and round table
carousels. Currently undergoing customer trials, AVALON® 65AS will become widely available
during 2011.
Alfons Tremml, Commercial Manager for Footwear at Huntsman said: “Historically, the production of
TPUs with a typical hardness of 65 Shore A has required the use of a plasticizer. However, by
carefully selecting ingredients and making adjustments to the catalysts we use, we have eliminated
the use of this additive and created a brand new plasticizer-free product. Discussions with our
customers led us to take the first steps in researching and developing AVALON® 65AS. Listening
carefully to their ideas and understanding their requirements has enabled us to develop a unique
TPU grade that conforms to manufacturing legislation and green eco-label standards.”
Showcasing its wider expertise in producing environmentally friendly TPU grades, Huntsman will also
use SIMAC to demonstrate its water-based polyether systems and tin-free polyurethane products.
These PUR-solutions are commonly used in men’s, ladies and children’s shoes. Huntsman was the
first company to launch a fully water-blown polyether system. Many other companies have
subsequently followed Huntsman’s lead in this area and the ability to develop environmentally
friendly polyether-based products is now a prerequisite for many footwear manufacturers looking to
choose a material supplier.
- ENDS -
News Release
For further information about Huntsman Polyurethanes please contact: Alfons Tremml, Commercial
Manager for Footwear at Huntsman by email: [email protected] or telephone: +49 991
2704 230
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 11,000 employees and operates from multiple locations worldwide. The Company had
2009 revenues of approximately $8 billion. For more information about Huntsman, please visit the
company’s website at www.huntsman.com.
Forward Looking Statements:
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.