Dow Polyurethane Technology Makes the Grade for Comfortable Carpet

Dalton, GA - September 14, 2006

When it comes to improved ergonomics, Dow polyurethane carpet backing technology is the brains behind educational facility flooring. Polyurethane technology from The Dow Chemical Company creates a quieter, more comfortable environment, setting the stage for quality learning – from the elementary school to the university level.

To foster superior learning experiences, educational spaces like classrooms and libraries require peace and quiet. And school theaters and concert halls have their own unique set of acoustic needs. The addition of a cushioned backing made with Dow polyurethane technology plays a key role in a space’s acoustic properties. Dow Polyurethane technology for commercial carpet creates a unique molecular structure, forming a polymeric bond between the primary and secondary backing. The result is a unified composite material that improves the performance of carpet, including ergonomics and sound absorption qualities. Noise from other classrooms can easily distract nearby students. An effective noise reducer, cushioned carpet backing made with ENHANCER™ Technology minimizes the sound of foot traffic, absorbs airborne sound and reduces sound transmission to nearby rooms.

A cushioned carpet backing also impacts the comfort of a space. In schools and libraries where faculty and staff members are on their feet all day, the flooring should offer plenty of support. Carpet with improved ergonomics offers the potential for increased employee productivity and satisfaction. Made of high-density polyurethane, ENHANCER™ Technology adds comfort underfoot. It reduces heel-strike force and leg muscle response, two prime causes of standing and walking fatigue.
“The specification of Dow polyurethane technology contributes to an educational facility’s comfort and quiet, said Scott Lowrie, business manager for Dow Polyurethane Floor Coverings Group. “We’ve designed our polyurethane backing technology to provide excellent ergonomic qualities that meet the flooring demands of today’s busy educational spaces.”
Backing made with Dow polyurethane technology is available upon request through all carpet manufacturers. For more information on Dow polyurethane technology, visit us at the Council of Educational Facility Planners annual conference in Phoenix, Arizona, September 16-19, at booth #502. Or go online to www.dowcarpetbackings.com.

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.

®™^* Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company ("Dow") or an affiliated company of Dow

¹ To offer these benefits, ENHANCER Technology must be used together with a polyurethane pre-coat

For Editorial Information:

Janet Hansen
The Dow Chemical Company
(800) 735-3129

Shawn Zwilling
The Branding Firm, Inc.
(706) 812-1824
shawn.zwilling@thebrandingfirm.com

Lauren LeGodais
The Branding Firm, Inc.
(706) 812-1824
lauren.legodais@thebrandingfirm.com