Introduction of FILMGUARD™ OIT Expands Dow Biocides Paints and Coatings Offering Into Dry Film Preservation

Guangzhou, China - November 07, 2006

With the introduction of FILMGUARD™ OIT into its product portfolio, Dow Biocides, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company, is strengthening its dry-film preservation offering for paint and coatings applications. FILMGUARD OIT is a broad spectrum, non-formaldehyde mildewicide developed for the complete protection of latex and solvent-based dried paint films against bacteria, yeasts and fungi.

Introduced initially in China, FILMGUARD OIT provides long-term efficacy in dry paint films exposed to the environment, preventing yellowing, discoloration, chalking, or cracking of the film. It is based on OIT (2-n-octyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one) technology, a widely used biocide active ingredient for dry-film preservation.

“The addition of FILMGUARD OIT marks the continued expansion of our paint and coatings portfolio to include solutions for every microbial challenge,” said Vincent Zeng, regional commercial manager, China, Dow Biocides. “As the global biocides industry leader, we are pleased to offer products for both in-can and dry-film preservation, as well as industrial hygiene and quick kill microbial control, helping customers avoid contamination from all possible sources.”

Currently, FILMGUARD OIT is available as 45% and 99% active glycolic solutions of OIT. Both concentrations have thermal stability up to 60 degrees Celsius and pH stability up to 9.5. Launched in China, the FILMGUARD OIT products will be available in other countries as regulatory approvals are obtained. For more information about purchasing FILMGUARD OIT, please contact the Dow Biocides China Sales Office in Guangzhou at +86 20 8752 0380.

Offering the industry's largest and most diverse product portfolio, Dow Biocides offers a product for just about every type of microbial challenge and system requirement. The performance capabilities range from high to low pH performance, quick kill to sustained performance and a range of registrations unparalleled in the industry. For more information on Dow Biocides, visit www.dowbiocides.com

About The Dow Chemical Company

Dow is a diversified chemical company that harnesses the power of science and technology to improve living daily. The Company offers a broad range of innovative products and services to customers in more than 175 countries, helping them to provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. Built on a commitment to its principles of sustainability, Dow has annual sales of $46 billion and employs 42,000 people worldwide. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted.

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For Editorial Information:

Louise Falp
Dow Biocides
(847) 808-3771