Dow Biocides Glutaraldehyde-Based Product Portfolio Proven Effective Against H5N1 Avian Influenza

London - November 30, 2005

Following independent research testing conducted at the Southern Research Institute in Birmingham, Alabama, USA, Dow Biocides glutaraldehyde-based product portfolio for animal housing biosecurity, which includes products marketed under the GLUTEX™ and UCARSAN™ brand names, has been proven effective against the highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza virus, in addition to a wide range of other animal viruses.

The tests from Southern Research Institute, a CDC (Center for Disease Control) certified laboratory, proved that GLUTEX and UCARSAN sanitizers and antimicrobials completely inactivate the H5N1 virus with dilution rates as low as 500 parts per million (ppm) when tested on a five minute exposure time at room temperature 20 - 24o under laboratory test conditions. This test data confirms that under normal use and application rates (approx 1,000 - 2,500 ppm active for five minutes), GLUTEX and UCARSAN sanitizers continue to provide strong efficacy against the virus as long as treated surfaces are wet.

"As outbreaks of Avian Influenza continue to occur across Asia and into Europe and North America, we must look at all available ways to prevent the spread of the disease. Farm disinfection and sanitization is an imperative step in controlling the spread of the virus," said Mark Henning, general manager, Dow Biocides. "Our glutaraldehyde-based product portfolio for animal housing disinfection is one of the most efficacious on the market, with research data proving efficacy against 14 major viruses including HPAI H5N1 and H6N2, as well as other diseases such as Newcastle Disease Virus, Infections Bursal Disease and Foot & Mouth Disease which if left unchecked, all have the potential to ruin the livelihood of a farm."

GLUTEX and UCARSAN sanitizers and antimicrobials are based on the active molecule glutaraldehyde, a potent, broad-spectrum antimicrobial molecule. A non-oxidizing agent, glutaraldehyde does not corrode metal surfaces like oxidizing agents such as household bleach, making it safe to use on surfaces that can harbor pathogenic micro-organisms across the farm environment. Glutaraldehyde also remains active longer than typical oxidizing biocides, however as with any chemical reaction, the rate of kill slows as temperatures drop.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has specifically identified glutaraldehyde, detergents and quaternary ammonium products as effective disinfectants against the Avian Influenza virus. The WHO also indicates that the virus "remains viable for long periods in tissue, feces and water, but is high susceptible to disinfection."

Dow Biocides is the world's leading producer of glutaraldehyde at its Institute, West Virgina manufacturing facility. The GLUTEX portfolio includes GLUTEX sanitizers (formerly known as UCARSAN™) which are proprietary formulated concentrates containing the highly-effective proven broad spectrum microbiocide glutaraldehyde and other efficacy enhancing additives. In addition, GLUTEX antimicrobials are a new range of pre-formulated, ready-to-use products which combine glutaraldehyde with the patented G-cide* complex GX+* from independent biotech company GX Laboratories.

About Dow Biocides

For global biocides solutions in application technology, challenge testing, regulatory compliance, process chemistry and operations excellence, think Dow Biocides. First. Boasting the world's largest and most diverse biocide product portfolio combined with a range of registrations unparalleled in the industry, Dow Biocides is committed to providing answers to just about every type of microbial challenge and system requirement across a wide range of markets around the world.

Dow is a leader in science and technology, providing innovative chemical, plastic and agricultural products and services to many essential consumer markets. With annual sales of $40 billion, Dow serves customers in 175 countries and a wide range of markets that are vital to human progress: food, transportation, health and medicine, personal and home care, and building and construction, among others. Committed to the principles of sustainable development, Dow and its 43,000 employees seek to balance economic, environmental and social responsibilities. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted.

For Editorial Information:

Louise Falp
Dow Biocides
847 808 3771