Rhodia Silicones Introduces One-of-a-Kind Silicone forRoof Coating Industry.

Business Editors

CRANBURY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 28, 2000

Rhodia Silicones announces the introduction of Rhodia 4000, an innovative silicone emulsion technology, into the spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roof coating market.

A one-of-a-kind product, Rhodia 4000 is the only high performance, volatile organic compound (VOC)-free silicone roof coating available on the market.

Based on Rhodia's patented Rhodalis(TM) technology, Rhodia 4000 offers superior adhesion quality to SPF materials, making it a clear alternative for roofing contractors looking for an environmentally responsible solution.

Traditional solvent-based silicone coatings emit VOCs in the range of 150-300 grams/liter, which in several U.S. states, like California, exceed state VOC permissible emissions.

"Customers no longer have to choose between product performance and environmental responsibility," says Alain Morin, market development manager for Rhodia Silicones. "They can achieve both with Rhodia 4000. It is the clear alternative for roofing contractors looking for water-based products that cure as quickly as solvent-based products."

Distributed for SPF roof systems by Texas-based Everest Coatings, Rhodia 4000 coating offers high adhesion quality, fast cure and superior protection against water leakage and UV degradation. The material is UL-certified (Class A, Non Combustible Decks).

Introduced in 1997, Rhodia's Rhodalis(TM) technology is a patented technology that enables the emulsification of high molecular weight reactive or non-reactive silicone polymers, providing time and cost savings, as well as broad application versatility.

Other applications for this technology include bladder release agents for tires manufacturing, wood protective coatings, antifoams, sealants and caulks.

For more information about Rhodia's Rhodialis(TM) technology or Rhodia 4000, call 800/951-1102, ext. 206.

Rhodia Silicones is a world leader in silicone products.

Rhodia's specialty silicone products provide properties such as moisture and high temperature protection, insulation, release, foam control, lubrication, softening, bonding or easier molding and reproduction for applications in nearly any industry including automotive, aerospace, coatings, rubber and plastic, personal care, detergents, and health care.

Rhodia, one of the world's leading specialty chemicals companies, seeks to improve the quality of daily life by developing value-added products, services and solutions in the areas of cosmetics, clothing, food, health, the environment and industry. Rhodia employs 24,800 people worldwide and recorded sales of $5.5 billion in 1999. Rhodia (NYSE:RHA) is listed on the New York and Paris stock exchanges.