Michelman Forms Fibers & Composites Business Unit with Global Reach, Dedicated Staff

CINCINNATI, OH (February 15, 2011) – Michelman has formally organized its growing chemical sales into the fibers and composites markets under a business unit umbrella. The new Fibers and Composites Global Business Unit offers Michelman customers manufacturing capabilities in North America, Europe and Asia, worldwide distribution, dedicated business development personnel around the world, as well as technical and sales support staff.

Michelman manufactures a variety of emulsified and dispersed polymers used as sizing by fiberglass and other reinforcing fiber manufacturers. The treated fibers are in turn used to manufacture reinforced composite products and components such as wind turbines and lightweight reinforced plastic components in the automotive and durable goods markets.

“Our well known capabilities in the area of emulsification and polymer dispersion technologies preceded us in the fibers and composites markets,” said Mr. Steve Shifman, President and CEO at Michelman. “Early successes with polypropylene applications led to our acquisition of Hydrosize in 2008 and their expertise with polyurethane. Overall, there has been a tremendous adoption of Michelman technology by fiberglass manufacturers and producers all around the world. The formation of this business unit now better positions us to help our reinforcing fiber manufacturing customers deliver product with surface treatments designed for ultimate performance in the manufacturing of composites.”

The new Business Unit will be led by Dr. Yves De Smet and Dr. Andy Brink, both well-known veterans in the industry. Dr. De Smet will be responsible for the commercial aspects of the business including sales and marketing while Dr. Brink will be responsible for technology and business development.

About Michelman
Michelman is a global developer of water-based barrier and functional coatings for flexible film packaging, paperboard, and corrugated cartons; and water-based surface modifiers, additives and polymers for numerous industries including wood care, industrial coatings, inks, fibers, composites, and construction products. Michelman serves its multinational and regional customers with production facilities in the U.S., Europe and Singapore, and a worldwide network of highly trained field technical support personnel.