Dow Introduces Hypod™ Polyolefin Dispersions For Carpet-Backing Applications

The Dow Chemical Co., Midland, Mich., reports its new thermoplastic Hypod™ Polyolefin Dispersions
for carpet-backing applications provide a more sustainable alternative to traditional thermoset
backings, making it easier to recycle carpet components at the end of a product’s useful life.

“With more than 7 billion pounds … of carpet disposed of in North America and Europe
together each year, enhancing the recyclability of carpet can have a huge environmental and
economic impact,” said Mike Levinson, commercial director, Dow Ventures & Business Development.

The thermoplastic backings can be applied to broadloom, carpet tiles, artificial turf and
thermo-moldable products using conventional coating equipment. According to Dow, they use less
material than thermoset backings, thereby saving resources and energy and reducing the weight of
the end-product.

In addition, said Bruno Gade Nielsen, managing director of Dow customer Foamtex A.S., a
Denmark-based commission finisher for the carpet industry, “Hypod Polyolefin Dispersions have very
low odor and excellent wet strength.”

March 24, 2009

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