KRATON to Double Global Supply Capability of Polyisoprene Latex.

(From Hugin)

HOUSTON, TX -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 10/31/05 -- KRATON Polymers LLC (KRATON) today announced that it will be constructing a new 1,500 dry metric ton polyisoprene latex plant at its Paulinia, Brazil facility in response to strong demand from its medical and consumer product customers. The addition of this new plant would give KRATON the global capability to supply nearly 3,000 dry metric tons per annum. The new plant is expected to be operational in the fourth quarter of 2006 and would also enable KRATON to quickly and cost effectively expand further based upon market needs. "KRATON is excited to be making a sizeable investment in the growth of the polyisoprene latex business. KRATON polyisoprene latex is a unique synthetic alternative to natural rubber latex for dipped goods and various specialty products. We recognize our customers' needs to have more material available to meet their customers' increasing requirements," said Eli Ben-Shoshan, Vice President -- Business Development. George Gregory, Chief Executive Officer and President added, "This expansion in capacity further strengthens our capability to supply our customers around the world and enables us to meet future market-growth opportunities." About KRATON KRATON Polymers LLC is a premier, global specialty chemicals company and is the world's largest producer of styrenic block copolymers ("SBCs"), a ...