Stamicarbon/DSM Licensing Center and Depco-PPG Pty Ltd cooperate on Symphase^® and NIR Technology for Decorative Laminates

Urmond NL / Williamstown AU - May 29 th 2008

Stamicarbon / DSM Licensing Center and Depco-PPG today announce their cooperation for the commercialization of Symphase^® (melamine vapor deposition) technology and Near Infrared (NIR) technology. Depco-PPG receives from Stamicarbon a worldwide exclusive license to develop and commercialize these technologies for application in decorative laminates. Dr. Shahab Jahromi, Business Manager Symphase^®: “Currently we are actively pursuing the application of Symphase^® technology in the field of packaging, and we are absolutely delighted that Depco is going to develop this technology in parallel with NIR in the field of decorative laminates”. Mr. David Price, Managing Director Depco-PPG: “We are pleased to get the support and recognition from DSM-Stamicarbon for our efforts to bring Symphase^® and NIR technologies into the decorative laminates market”.

Symphase^® Technology
This technology is based on vapor deposition of organic molecules, such as melamine to prepare functional coatings. This technology has a number of applications such as in packaging and decorative laminates.

Near Infrared (NIR) Technology
Further development of this technology is focused on treatment of impregnated papers for decorative laminates. The application of NIR as the energy source enables intermediate and end properties not possible with conventional hot air drying ovens.

DSM creates innovative products and services in Life Sciences and Materials Sciences, contributing to the quality of life. DSM’s products and services are used globally in a wide range of markets and applications, supporting a healthier, more sustainable and enjoyable way of living. End markets include human and animal nutrition and health, personal care, pharmaceuticals, automotive, coatings and paint, electrics & electronics, life protection and housing.

Stamicarbon / DSM Licensing Center (DLC) is the licensing subsidiary of DSM. DLC sells licenses, know-how and related services to the chemical and related industries. DLC is actively licensing state-of-the-art technologies such as; Urea, Unsaturated Polyester Resin, Caprolactam, LldPE, Symphase^®, Freshure^®, Subcoal and ALLINCO^®.

Depco-PPG Pty Ltd is active in the decorative laminates industry including R+D and commercialization of process technologies.

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