Four Sectors of Activity, One Strategy

It has always been the policy of the Solvay Group to focus its efforts on product sectors where it has experience and know-how. The diversity of Solvay's activities is the result of systematic development of the by-products of each manufacturing process. This diversification centers on four sectors of activity, governed by a single industrial and commercial strategy.

Pharmaceuticals： Research with Life in Mind

Chemicals：The building blocks of Chemistry

Soda ash | Detergent | Chlor Chemicals | Hydrogen Peroxide | Fillers | Salt
Fluor | Barium Strontium | Caprolactones |

Plastics ：Custom-made Materials

Processing： From Plastics to Finished Products

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Plastics

The products offered by the Solvay Plastics companies are commercialized under 15 different trademark names. They were designed to cover a broad range of markets and applications and are classified in four main Product Range categories:

Company	Brand
Solvay Benvic	BENVIC®	PVC Compounds (Polyvinyl Chloride)
Solvay Engineered Polymers	DEXFLEX® SEQUEL®	PP Compounds (Polypropylene) PP Compounds
Solvay Advanced Polymers	IXEF® PRIMEF®	Polyarylamide PPS (Polyphenylene Sulfide)
Solvay Fluoro Polymers	SOLEF®	PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride)
Solvay Polyolefins Europe	ELTEX®	HDPE (High-density Polyethylene)
Solvay Polymers	FORTIFLEX®	HDPE
Solvin	SOLVIN® IXAN® DIOFAN®	PVC Resins PVDC (Polyvinylidene Chloride) PVDC
Padanaplast	POLIDAN® POLIDIEMME® COGEFILL® COGEGUM®	PE Compounds (Polyethylene) PE Compounds  PE Compounds PE Compounds
Dacarto Benvic		PVC Compounds
Solvay Indupa	INDUVIL®	PVC
Vinyloop	VINYLOOP®	Recycling Process
Vinythai	SIAMVIC®	PVC

　　　SOLVAY INDUPA DO BRASIL S.A.　Sao Paulo,Brazil
　　　SOLVAY INDUPA S.A.I.C.　Argentina
　　　VINYTHAI PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED　RAYONG、Thailand

(European Chemical News. 25 March-1 April 2002)
Planned acquisition of Italian fluorinated and peroxides producer Ausimont

Solvay offers disposals to EC

Belgian chemical group Solvay has proposed to divest some of its chemical activities in order to obtain European Commission (EC) approval for its planned acquisition of Ausimont.

A Solvay spokesman said the company is prepared to sell the hydrogen peroxide and persalt activities of Italian fluorinated and peroxides producer Ausimont in Bussi, Italy, as well as its own polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) activities in Decatur, Alabama, in the US.

He confirmed that Solvay has won a two-week extension for the EC's preliminary inquiry into the proposed acquisition of Ausimont. The new deadline is 10 April and will provide time for the regulators to review Solvay's proposed remedies in the deal.

The proposed E1.3bn ($1.1bn) acquisition, the largest in Solvay's history, will double the size of the group's fluorinated specialities activities and take it to number two in the global fluoro-products market. Following the transaction, Solvay's fluorinated specialities business will generate an annual turnover of approximately E900m with 2700 employees.

Solvay first announced the acquisition from Italian energy giant Montedison in December 2001, and expects the deal to be completed in the first half of 2002.

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Rubber World 2003/1/23

3M Completes Purchase of Solvay Fluoropolymers

Dyneon LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of 3M, has announced the completion of its acquistion of Solvay Fluoropolymers, Inc., a subsidiary of Sol-vay America, Inc. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

As a result of this transaction, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) fluoroplastic products formerly marketed under the Solef brand by Solvay Fluoropolymers, Inc. will be marketed by Dyneon under the Dyneon brand.

The acquisition includes the PVDF manufacturing facilities located in Decatur, Ala., and the remaining 50 percent interest in Alventia LLC, a joint venture between Solvay Fluoropolymers, Inc. and Dyneon that produces VF2 -- the principal building block of PVDF.

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2002/8/27 Solvay

SOLVAY IN AGREEMENT WITH DYNEON TO SELL SOLVAY FLUOROPOLYMERS, INC. IN DECATUR (USA)
　　Sale of PVDF activities taken to comply with conditions set by competition authorities for Ausimont acquisition

Solvay America, Inc. and Dyneon LLC (a wholly-owned subsidiary of 3M) have entered into a binding letter of intent for the sale of the North America - based Solvay Fluoropolymers, Inc. to Dyneon, subject to final regulatory approvals.

The financial details of the transaction will not be released.

Solvay Fluoropolymers sells a line of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) homopolymers and copolymers and has manufacturing facilities in Decatur, Alabama. Those facilities include a 50% interest in Alventia LLC, a joint venture with Dyneon that produces - a building block of PVDF. The PVDF facility began operations during the 4th quarter of 2000. The transaction would involve the transfer of the company's employees to Dyneon.

PVDF materials are used primarily in the wire/cable and chemical processing industries.

The pending transaction reflects Dyneon's interest in growing its fluoropolymers business. Jim Gregory, President, Dyneon LLC, said, the acquisition is a tangible demonstration of our commitment to the fluoropolymer industry. It sends a strong message that Dyneon is investing in the future, is prepared to provide global leadership in this industry."

The transaction was initiated in response to divestiture orders of U.S. and European regulatory authorities which arose from Solvay S.A.'s acquisition of Ausimont S.p.A. earlier this year. If approved by relevant regulatory authorities, the sale of Solvay Fluoropolymers, Inc. to Dyneon LLC is anticipated to close before the end of 2002.

The acquisition of Ausimont, after the divestiture of Solvay's Decatur facilities , approximately doubles the size of the Solvay Group's fluorospecialties business while expanding its product portfolio.

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs some 31,400 people in 50 countries. In 2001 its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 8.7 billion generated by its four sectors of activity: Chemicals, Plastics, Processing and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay is listed on the Euronext 100 index of top European companies. Details are available at www.solvay.com.

SOLVAY AMERICA, INC. is the U.S. holding company for most of the North American subsidiaries of the worldwide Solvay Group.

DYNEON LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of 3M, headquartered in Oakdale, Minnesota, USA, is one of the world's leading fluoropolymer producers with operations or representation in more than 50 countries.

3M is a $16 billion diversified technology company with leading positions in health care, safety, electronics, telecommunications, industrial, consumer and office, and other markets. Headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, USA, the company has operations in more than 60 countries and serves customers in nearly 200 countries. 3M, which marks its 100th anniversary this year, is one of the 30 stocks that make up the Dow Jones Industrial Average and also is a component of the Standard & Poor's 500 Index. For more information about 3M, go to www.3M.com.

May 22, 2003 Financial Times

Solvay expands VCM, PVC capacity in Brazil.

$45 M is to be invested by Solvay Indupa do Brazil, a subsidiary of Solvay, to increase vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) capacity by 110,000 tonnes/y to 270,000 tonnes/y and PVC capacity by 40,000 tonnes/y to 280,000 tonnes/y at Santo Andre in Brazil. Completion is expected before the end of 2005.

2003/6/18 Solvay

Solvay in new partnership to launch industrial operations on growing Russin PVC compounds market

Solvay announces today that it has signed an agreement with Nikos, a private Russian industrial group, to create Soligran, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) compounds joint venture in Russia. The new company, of which both partners will hold 50%, is scheduled to be operational from the autumn of 2003, pending approval of the Russian authorities. It will mark the return of Solvay's industrial activities in Russia after 85 years.

With the support of technology transferred from Solvay, Soligran will operate in two plants to serve the large regional needs. The plants are located in Tver, which lies 170 km north of Moscow, and in Volgograd, where Nikos is already operating integrated vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) and PVC production units. Soligran is expected to set up a total annual production capacity of more than 40.000 tons of PVC compounds within the next two years.

Solvay and Nikos are creating Soligran in the framework of a rapidly expanding market for PVC compounds in Russia. Producing locally, the joint venture will be able to supply fast-growing local processors with a prime-rate product at competitive prices, which will enable them to manufacture and to sell superior quality goods to the cabling and building industries, among others.

Nikos is a diversified financial and industrial group, which evolved from a research and production cooperative created in 1990 by a team of scientists from Moscow University's Physics Faculty. It had total sales of some USD 150 million in 2001 and USD 200 million in 2002, with key assets in the chemical industry in Volgograd, as well as in the banking and financial sector.

Solvay is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs more than 30,000 people in 50 countries. In 2002 its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 7.9 billion, generated by its four sectors of activity: Chemicals, Plastics, Processing and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay is listed in the Euronext 100 index of top European companies.

September 16, 2003 Business Wire

Solvay America Inc. Consolidates U.S. Chemicals Operations as Solvay Chemicals Inc.

Solvay America Inc. has begun the process of consolidating its U.S. chemicals operations under the new name, Solvay Chemicals Inc. The consolidation will be completed by Jan. 1, 2004.

Solvay Minerals Inc. and Solvay Interox Inc. have already been combined to form the new company, which is headquartered in Houston. Solvay Fluorides Inc., will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Solvay Chemicals as of Jan. 1, 2004, at which time its St. Louis office will close.

"The combination of these businesses will create more efficient operations and simplify matters for our customers, making it easier for them to access our full chemicals product line," said David G. Birney, president of Solvay America Inc. Birney will also serve as president of Solvay Chemicals Inc.

Dick Hogan has been named senior vice president of Commercial of Solvay Chemicals Inc. and Vance Erickson has been named senior vice president of Solvay Fluorides Inc. Ray Johnson and Steve Kovar have been appointed vice president of Human Resources and Logistics and vice president of Finance, respectively, of Solvay Chemicals.

Product lines involved in the consolidation include soda-based products, peroxygens, fluorine-based products and other specialty products.

Solvay Chemicals' sites are located in Deer Park, Texas; Longview, Wash., and Green River, Wyo., while a subsidiary operates a site in Monterey, Mexico. Solvay Fluorides' sites are located in Alorton, Ill., and Catoosa, Okla.; a subsidiary operates a plant in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico.

Solvay America Inc. is the U.S. holding company for the North American operations of the Solvay Group, an international chemical and pharmaceutical group headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. The Solvay Group, whose companies employ more than 30,000 people in 50 countries, recorded consolidated sales for 2002 of EUR7.9 billion, generated by activities in its four business sectors: Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, Plastics and Processing. Solvay is listed on the Euronext 100 index of leading European companies. Details are available at www.solvay.com.

2004/5/13 Solvay

Solvay Soda Ash takes first step toward major chemical alliance in China
NCI, Subsidiary of Sinopec, identified as the appropriate potential partner
http://www.solvaypress.com/pressreleases/0,,18322-2-0,00.htm

Solvay announces today that it has signed a Letter of mutual interest with Nanjing Chemical Industries (NCI), a unit of China PetroChemical Corporation (Sinopec), aiming at setting up a joint venture for the operation of NCI's soda ash plant in Lianyungang, China. Both parties will now enter into detailed feasibility studies, with the objective of concluding successful negotiations by the end of 2004 - and leading to the launch of joint operations in 2005.

Solvay, the global leader in soda ash, regards the Lianyungang plant as a modern and efficient operation, using the process originally developed by Solvay. Its current annual production capacity is 900 kilotons, placing it among the largest soda ash plants in Asia. Should an alliance with NCI be confirmed, Solvay believes that its experience, technical know-how and distribution network could substantially enhance the competitiveness of the Lianyungang plant as well as the marketing of its products. Furthermore, the partners would seek to increase the plant's production capacity and to develop sodium bicarbonate, calcium chloride and other high value added businesses.

The primary objective of the venture would be to serve the soda ash market in China, whose growth is fuelled by China's potent economic expansion. The alliance would also allow Solvay to complete its export network in the Asia-Pacific region.

"With NCI, we have identified one of the most appropriate potential partners in China as well as a promising industrial operation," commented Alois Michielsen, Chairman of the Executive Committee of Solvay. "This could become a first step in the implementation of Solvay's strategy in China," Michielsen said.

NCI is one of the large scale chemical companies belonging to Sinopec Group. It has a history of more than 70 years in China's chemical industry. NCI manufactures more than 200 different products in 6 sectors: chemical fertilizers, inorganic and organic materials, catalysts, chemical fibres and chemical machinery. NCI is also engaged in chemical engineering including research, design, manufacture, construction and installation. It is one of the major production bases for chemical fertilizers, catalysts, soda ash and chemical equipment in China.

Solvay is an international chemical and pharmaceutical group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs more than 30,000 people in 50 countries. In 2003 its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 7.6 billion generated by its four activity sectors: Chemicals, Plastics, Processing and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay is listed on the Euronext 100 index of top European companies. Details are available at www.solvay.com.

November 03, 2004 Solvay

Solvay sells its stake in BP Solvay Polyethelene joint ventures to BP
http://www.solvaypress.com/pressreleases/0,,24381-2-0,00.htm

Exercise of put option confirms Solvay's focus on specialty polymers

Solvay SA announces today that it has exercised its option to sell its stakes in the BP Solvay Polyethylene joint ventures to BP, effective early 2005 - pending approval by the relevant authorities and information/consultation procedures with workers' representatives. Solvay currently holds 50% of BP Solvay Polyethylene Europe and 51% of BP Solvay Polyethylene North America. After completion, BP would become the full owner of the European and American joint ventures.

Solvay and BP have also addressed and agreed on a number of operational issues to ensure the seamless continuation of the activities of the joint ventures.

The BP Solvay Polyethylene subsidiaries were created in August 2001 to combine both groups' high density polyethylene (HDPE) activities, in parallel with two other transactions in which Solvay sold its polypropylene activities to BP and acquired BP's specialty polymers business. Later in 2001, to further its leadership in specialty polymers, Solvay acquired Ausimont, now called Solvay Solexis. To help the financing of this latter acquisition, Solvay monetized the proceeds of its option to sell its stakes in the polyethylene joint ventures to BP. To that effect, a fully consolidated subsidiary of Solvay issued EUR 800 million of preferred shares, which were subscribed by several banks. A substantial part of the proceeds from the actual exercise of Solvay's option on BP will be used to redeem all of the preferred shares for EUR 800 million.

"Solvay has successfully implemented its strategy aiming at a rapid growth of its high value added specialties, which are now among the largest contributors to the Group's results," said Alois Michielsen, chairman the Executive Committee of Solvay. "The exercise of our put on the BP Solvay Polyethylene ventures confirms our intention to focus on R&D-intensive activities and on businesses where we have a clear competitive advantage," Michielsen added.

BP is one of the largest global petrochemicals companies offering an integrated range of products, including olefins, polypropylene, HDPE (high density polyethylene), acrylonitrile, paraxylene (PX), purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and acetic acid. It has indicated that the former-joint venture HDPE business will be part of its proposed standalone olefins and derivatives company due to be created in 2005.

Solvay is an international chemical and pharmaceutical group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs more than 30,000 people in 50 countries. In 2003 its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 7.6 billion generated by its three activity sectors: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay is listed on the Euronext 100 index of top European companies. Details are available at www.solvay.com.

2005/12/15 Solvay

Solvay signs agreement to acquire innovative specialty polymers business from Gharda (India)
http://www.solvay.com/services/newsfrompo/0,,36602-2-0,00.htm

Solvay announces today that it has signed a binding Sale & Purchase agreement for the acquisition of the Polymers Division of Gharda Chemicals in India. The operation will provide Solvay with a new global platform for the development, manufacturing, and marketing of a new range of specialty grades of ultra-high performance polymers such as polyether ketones (PEEK), high performance sulfones, and related monomers. The transaction is subject to certain conditions including approval from the relevant authorities. Solvay and Gharda are aiming to complete the transaction as soon as practical thereafter.

The Polymers Division of Gharda Chemicals operates a state-of-the-art R&D center and production plant in Panoli, Gujarat State, with about 180 employees including a large number of highly educated specialists (chemists, engineers, polymer engineers and PhDs) with revenues slightly over USD 10 million. The acquisition will provide the Solvay Specialty Polymers Strategic Business Unit with its first industrial base in India. Solvay plans to combine the acquisition into its Solvay Advanced Polymers, L.L.C. operating unit headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia and intends to invest in this strategic location to develop it into a global center for the development and production of specialty polymers and other innovative materials. As a first step in this direction, Solvay will make investments to expand PEEK production at the Panoli site as part of a broader plan to establish a strong market position for Solvay in this ultra-high performance polymer.

"This acquisition fits very well the strategy of Solvay to reinforce its presence in high added-value specialties and also to expand its activities in Asia. The combined knowledge and technical capabilities of the two companies, supported by Solvay's extensive commercial network, fortifies the Group's position as a global leader in specialty polymers. We believe Solvay will greatly benefit from the expertise, creativity and entrepreneurship of the new Indian team," commented Vincenzo Morici, General Manager, Strategic Business Unit Specialty Polymers, Solvay. "This move is also part of our renewed interest in the Indian market for the entire range of our Specialty Polymers, including barrier polymers and fluoropolymers, where we see strong local growth," Morici added.

Ultra-High Performance Polymers such as PEEK, Polyamideimide (Torlon(R)) and high performance sulfones (Supradel(R)) are used in a broad range of industries such as semiconductors, electronics, aircraft, medical and automotive whenever the requirements of the application exceeds the performance of other technical polymers, metal, and other traditional materials

SOLVAY is an international chemicals and pharmaceuticals group with headquarters in Brussels. It is present in more than 50 countries and employs some 33,000 people in its Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals activities. Including the recently acquired company Fournier Pharma, its 2004 sales amounted to EUR 8.5 billion. Solvay is listed on the Euronext 100 index of top European companies. Details are available at www.solvay.com.

GHARDA CHEMICALS, established in 1967, is a research-based company with three manufacturing units. The company has won several national awards in India for technical innovation in the chemical industry and has many firsts in the field of dyestuffs, pesticides, veterinary drugs and polymers.

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British Plastics & Rubber 2003/8/1

PEEK producer pushes protection
http://www.polymer-age.co.uk/archive66.htm#PEEK%20producer%20pushes%20protection

Indian agrochemicals manufacturer Gharda Chemicals has extended the patent cover for its polyether ether ketone polymer. Earlier this year it obtained a British patent, and has now secured an American patent for Melt Processible PEEK.
In this context PEEK is an acronym for polyether ether ketone. PEEK is also the trade name used by Victrex for the polyether ether ketone originally developed by ICI, and which it now refers to by the more generic definition of polyaryl ether ketone.
Gharda's PEEK - tradenamed Gatone - is made in a different process from Victrex PEEK in that it uses an electrophillic process developed by Gharda, and does not involve fluorine monomers. Gharda says that its process, only commercialised in 2000, is cheaper than that used by Victrex, but that the product is comparable.
Gharda also makes polyether sulphone, polysulphone and polyphenylene sulphone, and has plans to introduce further sulphone polymers with continuous use temperatures exceeding 300 degC.
Gharda materials are now sold in the UK by Lati UK.

January 31, 2006 Solvay

Solvay builds new Epichlorohydrin plant to meet growing demand with innovative production process
A strategic outlet for booming‘green'biodiesel industry
http://www.solvay.com/services/newsfrompo/0,,38696-2-0,00.htm

Solvay announces today that it will build a new epichlorohydrin plant on its industrial site of Tavaux, France, implementing a novel process with greatly enhanced environmental performance. The process, called Epicerol, was successfully developed by Solvay's R&D and is based on the transformation of glycerine, a by-product of the biodiesel industry. The new plant, which is scheduled to be operational by the first half of 2007, will be fed with glycerine derived from rapeseed oil and fits perfectly with the development of the Biodiesel industry actively supported by the French government.

The development of the glycerine-based process for the production of epichlorohydrin is covered by eleven patent applications issued by Solvay.

The steadily increasing demand for epichlorohydrin - whose main applications include the production of epoxy resins, paper reinforcement and water purification - is expected to exceed the existing global production capacity by 2010. Solvay has secured a long-term contract for the supply of glycerine with French company Diester Industrie, capitalizing on the fast growth of the biofuels industry and the large quantities of glycerine available at an appropriate price. The new plant will have an initial production capacity of 10 kilotons per annum and could be quickly duplicated to respond to the rapid market growth.

In the Epicerol process, glycerine - a renewable material - is substituted for propylene, a hydrocarbon. Other environmental benefits include reduction of chlorinated by-products and sharp reduction of water consumption.

"The industrialization of the Epicerol process illustrates the implementation of Solvay's strategy to ensure sustainable, profitable growth through innovation," commented Freddy Gielen, managing director of the strategic business unit Electrochemistry and Derived Specialties. "The combination of our R&D with the new opportunities arising from the ‘green' chemical and fuel industry gives us the opportunity to optimize the process, making it eventually both economical and environmentally friendly," he added.

SOLVAY is an international chemicals and pharmaceuticals group with headquarters in Brussels. It is present in more than 50 countries and employs some 33,000 people in its Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals activities. Including the recently acquired Fournier Pharma, its 2004 sales amounted to EUR 8.5 billion. Solvay is listed on the Euronext 100 index of top European companies. Details are available at www.solvay.com.

Notes to the Editors:

Epichlorohydrin is one of the most useful members of the epoxide family of compounds, its major use being the manufacture of epoxy resins, which have a large number of applications in the car, housing, boating and leisure industries. Other applications include the reinforcement of paper (used for instance in the food industry to manufacture tea bags) and water purification. Epichlorohydrin is traditionally derived indirectly by reacting propylene with chlorine.

The Epicerol process developed by Solvay allows the direct synthesis of dichloropropanol, an intermediate product, from glycerine and hydrochloric acid. A second step - dehydrochlorination - generates the final product, epichlorohydrin. The entire process is marked by a lower specific consumption of chlorine and water, consequently reducing chlorinated effluents. Solvay developed the glycerine-based process described in earlier scientific literature and made its industrialization possible thanks to the creation of an entirely new class of catalysts, among other innovations.

Glycerine is the main by-product of biodiesel production, with the generation of approximately 100 kg of glycerine for every 1000 kg of biodiesel.

Platts 2006/2/23

EC approves sale of Solvay's Industrial Foils business to Renolit

The European Union's competition commission has approved the sale of the Industrial Foils business of Belgium's chemicals group Solvay to Germany's Renolit, the commission announced Thursday. The sale include the production, marketing and sales of plastic foils. According to Solvay, the closing of the transaction "is now expected in the coming weeks, pending relevant social procedures." The agreed price of the transaction is Eur330-mil ($395-mil).
The commission said that the decision was subject to "a number of conditions intended to safeguard competition in the flexible technical PVC film market where the proposed transaction raises competition concerns."
"Effective competition in this foils sector is important because of the wide range of applications of these products by a large number of customers. A sufficient number of competing suppliers must remain on the market to supply high quality industrial foil at a competitive price," said the commission.
To remedy these concerns, the commission said that Renolit has offered to divest Solvay's two main production plants for flexible technical PVC films, namely the Liancourt plant in France and the relevant part of the Enkhuizen plant in the Netherlands. As a result of the commitments the combined market share of the parties on the EEA market for flexible technical PVC films will be substantially reduced, and give other players the opportunity to enter or expand in the market, the commission said.
"Proposing the remedies in question was a painful decision," said Heinz Gartner, Renolit's CEO. "Nevertheless, the transaction is still serving Renolit's strategic objectives. The Solvay foils activities are considered by Renolit as a platform for strategic development targeting further growth and coherent diversification."
The vinyl flexible technical foils are used for the manufacturing of stationery products, self-adhesive tapes and stickers, packaging items or cinema screens, among other applications.

Renolit AG has more than half a century of experience in the development and production of plastic films.
http://www.renolit-werke.de/renolitag/englisch/frame.htm

2006/6/30 Solvay

Solvay to launch specialty polymer production in China 　　　微粒子化されたPTFE（四フッ化エチレン樹脂）パウダー
PTFE Micronized Powder Facility to Serve Buoyant Asian Markets

Solvay announces today that it has decided to build a new world-class polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE　四フッ化エチレン) Micronized Powder production unit in the People's Republic of China, to serve the dynamic local demand for innovative and high performance materials. Pending authorization from the relevant authorities, Solvay would initiate production in the second half of 2007.

PTFE Micronized Powders, marketed under the brand name Polymist(R), are used in a variety of complex applications, such as the manufacturing of cosmetics, high gloss inks, high performance lubricants and heat-resistant materials. The demand for micronized PTFE in Asia and particularly in China is fuelled by both the fast development of a local customer base as well as by the creation of local production facilities by a number of Solvay's global clients.

This latest move materializes Solvay's geographical expansion strategy into fast growing markets, with a particular focus on Asia. Other recent initiatives in Asia include the acquisition of the ultra performance polymers activities of Gharda Chemicals in Panoli, India; the creation of a high performance materials R&D and marketing platform in Shanghai, China; setting up a joint venture for the development, production and marketing of High Purity Hydrogen Peroxide in Suzhou, China and the commissioning of a new production facility for fluorinated chemical specialties in Onsan, South Korea.

The new Polymist(R) facility would be located in the Jiangsu High-Tech Fluorochemical Industrial Park in Changshu 江蘇省常熟市 some 100 kilometers west of Shanghai - and operated through Solvay Specialty Polymers Changshu, a newly created and fully-owned subsidiary of the Solvay group. The location was selected because of its proximity with Shanghai and the dedication of the Industrial Park to complex technologies in specialty chemicals and polymers - and particularly in the area of fluor technologies. In a first stage of development, the Changshu unit would occupy a surface of some 50,000 square meters. However, Solvay has also signed with the Park Authorities a Land Reservation Agreement for a total surface of 350,000 square meters in order to make Changshu the Solvay industrial base in China for further investments in Specialty Polymers.

The amount of the initial investment will not be released

"Our geographical expansion into high growth markets such as China and India is an essential part of our strategy to grow the Specialty Polymers business. This new step is very important for us and should pave the way for future developments," commented Vincenzo Morici, General Manager, Strategic Business Unit Specialty Polymers.

This new PTFE Micropowder facility and its products will be managed by the operating units of Solvay Solexis, a 100% subsidiary of the Solvay group. "Deploying a local production capacity enables us to offer world class product and services to our local clients as well as to our Global customers with all the advantages linked to proximity, in terms of logistics and reactivity," said Pierre Joris, CEO of Solvay Solexis SpA. "Newly available capacity will also be used to address the growing demand of Solvay Solexis traditional customers in other parts of the world," Joris added.

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs some 30,000 people in 50 countries. In 2005 its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 8.6 billion generated by its three activity sectors: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. SOLVAY (Euronext : SOLB.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLB.BR) is listed on the Euronext stock exchange in Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com

September 24, 2008　Solvay

Solvay strengthens position in fluorinated high-performance materials in Asia
　　　Second world-class production plant of Polytetrafluoroethylene Micronised Powder

Solvay announces today the inauguration of its new world-class Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Micronised Powder production unit in the People’s Republic of China, to serve the dynamic local demand for innovative and high performance materials. PTFE Micronised Powders, marketed under the brand name Polymist(R), are used in a variety of complex applications, such as the manufacturing of cosmetics, high gloss inks, high performance lubricants and heat-resistant materials.
This new facility is Solvay’s second Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Micronised Powder production unit, the first facility being in Marshallton, Delaware, USA. Solvay is the only highly integrated PTFE Micronised Powder manufacturer with production units in both NAFTA and Asia. The demand for micronised PTFE in Asia and particularly in China is fuelled by both the fast development of a local customer base as well as by the creation of local production facilities by a number of Solvay’s global clients.
The new facility will allow Solvay to continue to use its patented technology and ability to customize products to meet the individual needs of its customers. The new Polymist facility is in the Jiangsu High-Tech Fluorochemical Industrial Park in Changshu some 100 kilometres west of Shanghai - and is managed by the operating units of Solvay Solexis, a fully-owned subsidiary of the Solvay Group.
The new plant is consistent with Solvay’s geographical expansion strategy into fast growing markets. “Our geographical expansion into high growth markets such as China and India is an essential part of our strategy to grow the Specialty Polymers business,” commented Vincenzo Morici, General Manager, Strategic Business Unit Specialty Polymers. “Deploying a local production capacity enables us to offer world class product and services to our local clients as well as to our global customers with all the advantages linked to proximity, in terms of logistics and reactivity,” added Pierre Joris, CEO of Solvay Solexis. “This first plant is an important step in establishing a solid industrial platform and presence for our fluoromaterials in Asia”.
Other recent initiatives in Asia include the acquisition of the ultra performance polymers activities of Gharda Chemicals in Panoli, India; the creation of a high performance materials R&D and marketing platform in Shanghai, China; setting up a joint venture for the development, production and marketing of High Purity Hydrogen Peroxide in Suzhou, China and the commissioning of a new production facility for fluorinated chemical specialties in Onsan, South Korea.

2006/8/30 Solvay

Solvay Indupa launches ambitious plan to expand and upgrade vinyls production in Brazil
Capacity increase in Santo Andre to meet fast-growing Latin American demand

Solvay announces today that the Board of its affiliate Solvay Indupa has approved a USD 150 million investment program to expand and modernize its vinyls production plant of Santo Andre, Brazil, in anticipation of rapidly growing demand in Latin America.

The investment program includes upgrading the plant's electrolysis unit through the implementation of modern membrane technology with a nameplate annual capacity of 150,000 metric tons of chlorine and the expansion of the downstream vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) manufacturing facility, with the installation of larger, more competitive equipment. As a result, by the end of 2008, the Santo Andre plant will have a total annual VCM and PVC production capacity of 300,000 metric tons, with world-class, state-of-the-art installations. Subsequent developments will be considered to further expand the plant, whose fully integrated PVC capacity could be easily lifted in line with the demand growth .

"Solvay is implementing a consistent strategy of sustainable and profitable growth, feeding on geographical expansion and constant improvements to stay at the leading edge of competitiveness," commented Jacques van Rijckevorsel, General Manager of the Plastics Sector, Solvay. "This sizeable investment in Brazil lies within the scope of our strategy and reflects the high growth of Latin American economies, which is boosting demand for products from the vinyls chain," added Jacques van Rijckevorsel.

The Solvay group is one of the world's leading vinyls producer, ranking second in Europe and third globally. In addition to SolVin, its joint venture with BASF in Europe, the Group's activities in PVC and other products of the vinyl chain span across Asia and Latin America, through the affiliates Vinythai in Thailand and Solvay Indupa in Argentina and Brazil.

Solvay Indupa, a company of the Solvay group, is one of the most important petrochemical companies in the Mercosur. Its main products are PVC resins and Caustic Soda. Solvay Indupa has its main offices in Buenos Aires, Argentina and two industrial sites: one in Bahia Blanca (Argentina) and the other in Santo Andre (Brazil). Solvay holds 62.7% of Solvay Indupa, which is listed on the Buenos Aires stock market.

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs some 30,000 people in 50 countries. In 2005 its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 8.6 billion generated by its three activity sectors: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. SOLVAY (Euronext : SOLB.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLBt.BR) is listed on the Euronext stock exchange in Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com

Solvay Indupa has two industrial complexes: one located in Bahia Blanca Petrochemical Pole, in Argentina , producing 210,000 ton/year of PVC and 180,000 tons/year of Sodium hydroxide (NaOH); and the other located in the industrial complex in Santo Andre, Brazil , where it produces 240,000 tons/year of PVC (→300,000tpa）　and 100,000 tons/year of Sodium hydroxide (NaOH).

2006/10/16 Solvay

Solvay expands, upgrades ultra polymer production in Panoli (India)
Launch of KetaSpire^TM, a new polyether ether ketone (PEEK) product line

The Solvay group announces today that it has decided to expand and upgrade its facilities in Panoli (Gujarat State, India), which will result in the creation of a new, world-class production unit for polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and other materials in the ultra-performance segment of the specialty polymers business. The installation will be built to provide for a natural expansion of production, resulting in a step-wise increase in capacity as warranted by demand. It will come on stream in the first quarter of 2008, with a production capacity of 500 metric tons per year of KetaSpire, the new line of PEEK products developed by Solvay Advanced Polymers.

The amount of the investment required for the upgrade and expansion of the site will not be communicated.

The extraordinary mechanical properties, temperature resistance and processability of KetaSpire designate this PEEK product as a lightweight alternative for metal parts in critical aerospace or medical applications, among many other possible uses.

The R&D center and production plant in Panoli were formerly operated by Polymers Division of Gharda Chemicals, which Solvay acquired earlier this year. The successful completion of this acquisition laid the groundwork for Solvay's entry into the PEEK market. In parallel, the extensive research carried out at Solvay Advanced Polymers' R&D center in Alpharetta, (Georgia, United States) was finalized and resulted in a fully operational, robust, proprietary product and manufacturing technology for the new line of KetaSpire PEEK materials.

Solvay Adavanced Polymers has begun the production of KetaSpire PEEK, which will initially be based at its semi-commercial plant in Alpharetta, in a progressive rollout which will culminate in the launch of full commercial production in Panoli.

"The expansion of the Panoli plant and the launch of our new KetaSpire PEEK materials are instrumental in our high and ultra-performance polymers strategy," said Vincenzo Morici, General Manager of the Specialty Polymers Strategic Business Unit, Solvay.  "More importantly, our product range is escalating into the upper, most sophisticated category of the polymer performance pyramid. Solvay Advanced Polymers now produces more plastics with more performance than any other supplier in the world," added Roger Kearns, CEO of Solvay Advanced Polymers.

"With these expansion and upgrade plans, we are successfully capitalizing on the inherent strengths of Panoli, which contributed outstanding talent to the Group, as well as a prime location at the heart of the world's fastest-growing economies," said Vincenzo Morici.

SOLVAY ADVANCED POLYMERS, L.L.C. is a member of the Solvay Group.

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs some 30,000 people in 50 countries.  In 2005 its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 8.6 billion generated by its three activity sectors: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. SOLVAY is listed on the Euronext stock exchange in Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com.

Notes to the Editors:

The term polymer covers a large, diverse group of molecules, including substances ranging from proteins to high-performance materials. The polymers manufactured by the Solvay Group include plastics, elastomers and fluids. A polymer is a long chain of atoms, formed through the repetition of an identical molecule - called monomer. This repetition occurs during polymerization, in which many monomer molecules link to each other.

Ultra-performance polymers are polymers having an extremely high performance profile in terms of thermal, mechanical, and chemical resistance.  Such products are typically priced in excess of 50 Euros per kilogram and having annual demand generally in the order of hundreds to thousands of tons.

Semi-Crystalline Materials are materials that are comprised of molecules that are arranged either partially or nearly completely in an ordered and structured fashion.  With thermoplastics, semi-crystalline and crystalline molecular structures often result in certain performance features including high strength, high stiffness, and generally always opaque appearance.

PEEK is a generic acronym for polyetherether ketone, a class of semi-crystalline ultra-performance thermoplastics.

KetaSpirePEEK is a semi-crystalline polymer with exceptionally high thermal, mechanical, chemical-resistance and processing performance. 

2007/5/4 Platts

Argentina PVC maker Indupa mulls loan for Brazil expansion

Solvay Indupa, a leading polyvinyl chloride producer in Argentina and Brazil, has received in-principal approval from Brazil's National Development Bank (BNDES) for a loan of around $153 million to expand its plant in Brazil, the company said in a filing with the Buenos Aires Stock Exchange, Friday.

The company is studying contractual conditions and other elements of the financing before making a decision, it said.

The expansion project, first announced in August 2006, will boost production capacity of its plant in Santo Andre, Sao Paulo to 160,000 mt/year of caustic soda and 300,000 mt/year of PVC. The facility currently has capacity to produce 240,000 mt/year of PVC and 100,000 mt/year of caustic soda.

Solvay Indupa, part of Belgium's Solvay, produces PVC in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, where it recently completed a $7.3 million expansion of the plant's PVC capacity of 240,000 mt/year from 210,000 mt/year.

2007/6/27 Solvay

SOLVAY, SIBUR sign join venture agreement to build Russia's first world-scale vinyls production plant
State-of-the art technology for a fast-growing market

Solvay and SolVin, the joint subsidiary of Solvay and BASF for vinyls in Europe, announce today that they have signed a joint venture agreement with Sibur LLC, an affiliate of Gazprom to build Russia's first world-scale, fully integrated vinyls plant in Kstovo, in the Nizhny Novgorod region ニジニ・ノヴゴロド州.

Pending relevant regulatory clearance and the realization of appropriate infrastructure works, the production site is scheduled to be operational in 2010. It will require a total investment of EUR 650 million for the establishment of a total annual capacity of 330 kilotons of vinyls resin and 225 kilotons of caustic soda. The operation will serve the fast growing markets in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and is designed to accommodate a possible expansion bringing total capacity to 510 kilotons of vinyl resin and 335 kilotons of caustic soda.

The plant will be supplied with ethylene delivered from the cracker owned by Sibur in Kstovo. The cracker will be expanded by our Russian partner to meet the plant requirements as well as its own internal needs.

To implement their agreement, SolVin and Sibur Holding will create a joint venture company, RusVinyl, of which each partner will hold 50%. In addition, SolVin has entered into talks with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, aiming at a possible EBRD involvement in the project.

The project benefits from the support of the authorities of the Nizhny Novgorod Region.

Solvay is already present in Russia, through its own activities employing more than 600 people locally as well as through a number of industrial and research partnerships.

"Solvay is implementing a strategy of sustainable and profitable growth which includes geographical expansion into fast-growing markets; this vinyls project in the Nizhny Novgorod region marks a substantial step in that process," said Jacques van Rijckevorsel, Member of the Executive Committee and General Manager of the Plastics Sector, Solvay.

"Solvay will license its best available technology to this plant, with low energy and feedstock consumption; minimum emissions and effluents, and optimum safety and working conditions. The plant will abide by the most stringent international and Russian environmental standards, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of the vinyls industry in Russia," added Jacques van Rijckevorsel.

"This project is an important step forward for Solvin. BASF is pleased that its cooperation with Solvay in vinyls is now extended to Russia," said Dr. John Feldmann, Member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF and responsible for Plastics as well as Oil and Gas.

"Solvay has a unique experience in construction and operation of PVC production in Western Europe, South America and South-East Asia. Implementation of high-tech standards, in particular in the sphere of environmental protection, will allow to strengthen our leading position in the Russian market and to create additional value for the shareholders.", - SIBUR LLC President Dmitry Konov said.

SIBUR Group (www.sibur-holding.com) is Russian largest vertically-integrated petrochemical holding. GAZPROM Group holds the controlling stake of SIBUR Holding JSC. The sole executive powers were transferred and are performed by the management company SIBUR LLC.

The corporate center has 3 business units formed on the basis of similarity of the production processes and products. SIBUR also incorporates subholdings SIBUR-Russian Tyres JSC and SIBUR Mineral Fertilizers JSC, which formerly were the business units.

SolVin combines the competences of Solvay and BASF in the European vinyls sector. The synergies achieved in know-how and organization, the complementarities of product ranges as well as upstream integration have built up SolVin as a leader on the PVC and PVDC markets. The joint venture has operations in France, Germany, Spain and the Benelux countries and a total annual production capacity of 1.3 million tons of PVC, with nearly 2000 employees. Solvay owns 75% of SolVin and BASF, 25%. For further information, visit www.solvinpvc.com.

BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products, agricultural products and fine chemicals to crude oil and natural gas. BASF has approximately 95,000 employees and posted sales of 52.6 billion in 2006. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA), New York (BF) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs some 29,000 people in 50 countries. In 2006, its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 9.4 billion, generated by its three sectors of activity: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay (Euronext : SOLB.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLBt.BR) is listed on the Euronext stock exchange in Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com

NOTES TO THE EDITORS:

The Solvay group is one of the world's leading vinyls producer, ranking second in Europe and third globally. In addition to SolVin in Europe, the Group's activities in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other products of the vinyl chain span across Asia and Latin America, through the affiliates Vinythai in Thailand and Solvay Indupa in Argentina and Brazil.


Vinyl production capacity on the Kstovo plant would be split as follows: 300 k/tons of polyvinyl chloride suspension (S-PVC), 30 k/tons of emulsion polyvinyl chloride resin (E-PVC), and 225 k/tons of caustic soda. A possible expansion would add a capacity of 150 k/tons of S-PVC, 30 k/tons of E-PVC and 110 k/tons of caustic soda per year, by 2014.

---

Platts 2007/7/11

Gazprom completes move to fully divest petchems business Sibur

Gazprom has completed the sale of its stake of 25% plus one share in petrochemicals business Sibur, a spokesman for Sibur said Wednesday.

The stake of 25% plus one share has been transferred to Gazfond, a Gazprom affiliate, the spokesman said.

The planned transaction had been previously announced, part of a Gazprom plan to build up its power generation business.

Under the transaction, the 25% Sibur stake was effectively exchanged for shares in Moscow utility Mosenergo, which were previously held by Gazfond.

Gazprom has recently increased its share in Mosenergo to a majority.
Mosenergo is the Russia's largest territorial generation company, or TGK.
Its installed capacity is 10,600 MW. Under current plans, Mosenergo will add 4,800 MW of installed capacity by 2011.

The remaining 75% minus one share in Sibur remains with Gazprombank.
Gazprombank is 42%-owned by Gazprom. The remaining shares in the bank are held by Gazprom-affiliated structures, including opaque investment fund 'Leader'.

August 14, 2007 Solvay

Solvay launches Peracetic Acid production in China
State-of-the-Art Proxitane® Plant now fully operational in Suzhou

Solvay announces today that its new Peracetic Acid (PAA 過酢酸) production plant in Suzhou, China is now fully operational and will deliver advanced disinfection solutions with a low impact on the environment. The market demand in China for Solvay's PAA range, marketed under the Proxitane® brand name, has been growing strongly over recent years, particularly for disinfection applications in the food & drinks packaging industry and "clean in place" operations, which enable the sterilization of food or pharmaceutical production equipment on site.

The plant, based on Solvay's world class technology, abides by stringent standards and has been approved by the relevant authorities. It is operated on behalf of Solvay by Suzhou Crystal Clear Co Ltd.

Solvay and the SCCC group are already operating a joint venture to produce Ultra High Purity Hydrogen Peroxide for the semiconductor industry, in a new, world-class plant which inaugurated last autumn in Suzhou.

"The commissioning of this new plant in Suzhou is the most recent demonstration of Solvay's sustainable and profitable growth strategy through geographical expansion ? focusing in this particular instance on the dynamic Chinese market", commented E. Mignonat, general manager for Hydrogen Peroxide at Solvay.

"This well-managed local production facility and our policy of working with key customers as partners will allow Solvay to successfully exploit the emerging market opportunities for high quality Peracetic Acid in China," said Dr Eileen Smith, Global Manager of Solvay's PAA business. "We are now in an even better position to help our clients in the food and drink industry meet the most demanding food safety standards with a product that has a solid ecoefficiency record," she added. 

Peracetic acid is used in a wide range of applications and its uses are expanding as global standards for disinfection and environmental legislation become more stringent. It is also effective against viruses in animal farming, such as Avian Flu and Foot & Mouth disease. One of the key features of Peracetic Acid, a Hydrogen Peroxide-based product, is that it does not generate any persistent residues. Solvay is a leading global supplier of a range of high quality Peracetic Acid solutions. For more information, visit www.solvaypaa.com

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels.  It employs some 29,000 people in 50 countries.  In 2006, its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 9.4 billion, generated by its three sectors of activity:  Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals.  Solvay (Euronext: NYSE SOLBt.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLBt.BR) is listed on the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in  Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com

2007/9/6 Solvay

Solvay to build world-class Epicerol® plant in Thailand
Innovative green chemistry technology to serve strong demand for epichlorohydrin

Solvay announces today that it has decided to build a world-class plant in Map Ta Phut (Thailand) for the production of epichlorohydrin on the basis of the Epicerol® process, its proprietary technology with enhanced environmental performance. Pending relevant regulatory approval, the new plant is scheduled to be operational at the end of 2009, with an annual production capacity of 100,000 metric tons, enabling Solvay to provide a fast response to the rapidly growing demand for epichlorohydrin in Asia.

The demand for epichlorohydrin has significantly outpaced the growth of the world economy in recent years and is currently expanding by more than 20% per annum in China. Epichlorohydrin is an essential feedstock for the production of epoxy resins, increasingly used in applications in the electronics, automotive, aerospace and windmill sectors.

Epicerol® is a novel process developed by Solvay, based on the transformation of glycerine, which is a renewable by-product of the biodiesel industry. After a successful start-up in April 2007, this process with greatly enhanced environmental performance is under optimization in Tavaux, France, in an industrial plant fed with glycerine derived from rapeseed oil.

2007/4/13　Solvay、バイオディーゼル副生グリセリンを原料とするエピクロの生産開始

Solvayは5日、同社技術での菜種油からのバイオディーゼル生産時の副生グリセリンを原料とするエピクロルヒドリンの生産をフランスのTavauxで開始したと発表した。当初の能力は年10千トンで、需要に応じて簡単に拡張できる。

2007/5/8　植物ベースのバイオ製品の開発

"Solvay is moving fast. We are leveraging the technological advantage of our Epicerol® innovation and its successful implementation at industrial scale in France," commented Filipe Constant, Managing Director of the Strategic Business Unit Electrochemistry and Derived Specialties, Solvay. "Asia is quickly becoming the world's largest market for Epichlorohydrin," he said. "We will introduce an environmentally sustainable technology into this booming continent, using a renewable resource as raw material," added Constant.

Epicerol® is covered by more than 20 patent applications issued by Solvay. The process was honoured by an Innovation Award at the 2007 American Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS) Annual Meeting in Quebec City. It has also been awarded the Pierre Potier trophy in France for "Innovation in chemistry benefiting the environment", delivered by the French Ministry of the Industry in 2006.

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels.  It employs some 29,000 people in 50 countries.  In 2006, its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 9.4 billion, generated by its three sectors of activity:  Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals.  Solvay (Euronext: SOLB.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLBt.BR) is listed on the Euronext stock exchange in  Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com

Epichlorohydrin is one of the most useful members of the epoxide family of compounds, its major use being the manufacture of epoxy resins, which have a large number of applications in the car, housing, boating and leisure industries. Other applications include the reinforcement of paper (used for instance in the food industry to manufacture tea bags) and water purification. Epichlorohydrin is traditionally derived indirectly by reacting propylene with chlorine.

The Epicerol® process developed by Solvay allows the direct synthesis of dichloropropanol, an intermediate product, from glycerine and hydrochloric acid. A second step ? dehydrochlorination ? generates the final product, epichlorohydrin. The entire process is marked by a lower specific consumption of chlorine and water, consequently reducing chlorinated effluents. Solvay developed the glycerine-based process described in earlier scientific literature and made its industrialization possible thanks to the creation of an entirely new class of catalysts, among other innovations.

Glycerine is the main by-product of biodiesel production, with the generation of approximately 100 kg of glycerine for every 1000 kg of biodiesel.

2007/9/24 Solvay

Solvin to expand PVDC latex production in world-class plant of Tavaux (France)
A timely, competitive response to serve growing demand from food & pharma industry

SolVin, a joint venture of Solvay and BASF, announces today that it will build a new production line for polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) latex at its Tavaux (France) manufacturing site. PVDC latex is a specialty barrier material used as a coating in packaging applications where the integrity of the goods is critical, especially in the food and pharmaceutical sectors.

The new production line, which will add an annual capacity of 10,000 tons, is expected to be operational by mid-2009, in response to growing demand from the dynamic PVDC market. The new production line will benefit from full upstream integration of raw materials and from the expertise of the Tavaux staff, who have developed this operation into the global reference in terms of product quality and consistency.

While continuing to supply its international clients from Tavaux, SolVin is planning to strengthen its logistics to further improve its service to the rapidly expanding Asian market. SolVin will also continue to assess opportunities to create an entirely new production site in Asia or the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) countries, pending further developments in the PVDC market.

“With this new production line, SolVin will maintain its commercial and technological leadership as well as its global reputation of excellence in the PVDC market. We will continue serving our clients’ expansion, while contributing to Solvay’s strategy of sustainable and profitable growth in the Specialty Polymers business,” said Vincenzo Morici, General Manager of the Specialty Polymers Strategic Business Unit, Solvay. “The choice of creating a new line in Tavaux is also an advantageous solution in terms of timing and competitiveness, thanks to a seamless upstream integration. This will provide SolVin with an appropriate competitive position to access the emerging markets in Asia and NAFTA. while capitalizing on the huge know how and manufacturing excellence of the Tavaux site” added Morici.

SolVin is a joint venture of which Solvay owns 75% and BASF, 25%. It is a leader on the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) market in Europe and on the PVDC market worldwide.

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs some 29,000 people in 50 countries. In 2006, its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 9.4 billion, generated by its three sectors of activity: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay is listed on the Euronext stock exchange in Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com

Notes to the Editors:

The unique set of properties of polyvinylidene chloride with combined water vapor and oxygen barrier properties, impressive barrier to oils, greases, chemicals, and to other gases and odors, transparency and printability, excellent thermoforming performance and machinability makes it effective in protecting foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals. These properties allow processors to limit the volume of material needed to manufacture safe and effective packaging.

2007/10/8 Solvay

China : Solvay reinforces its presence and plans for more investments in specialty polymers

PTFE Micronized Powder facility confirmed; more projects under consideration

Solvay Solexis, a 100% subsidiary of the Solvay Group, today confirms that its new polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Micronized Powder plant currently under construction in Changshu, China, will be completed and operational in the first quarter of 2008. Solvay Solexis also confirms its intention to further develop its activities on the site, where it is considering producing other high value added fluorinated polymers.

The new PTFE plant is located in the Jiangsu High-Tech Fluorochemical Industrial Park in Changshu 常熟市, some 100 kilometers west of Shanghai. The location was selected last year because of its proximity with Shanghai and the dedication of the Industrial Park to complex technologies in specialty chemicals and polymers - particularly in the area of fluor technologies.

Among the subsequent development projects considered in Changshu, Solvay Solexis is planning to build, an integrated production plant for the manufacturing of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) for coating applications and related monomers.

PVDF resin, marketed under the Hylar(R) brand name, is used as a base material for long-life architectural coating systems for metal, glass, and other exterior surfaces, thanks to its extraordinary properties, that are particularly suited as a base for the most durable liquid coatings.

“Our geographical expansion into high growth markets such as China and India is an essential part of our strategy to grow Specialty Polymers business,” said Vincenzo Morici, General Manager, Strategic Business Unit Specialty Polymers.

“Beyond its strategic expansion goals, Solvay Solexis, through this new plan, confirms its endeavor to supply world class products to its local customers, with the advantages in terms reactivity and logistics that proximity can give,” comments Pierre Joris, CEO of Solvay Solexis.

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs some 29,000 people in 50 countries. In 2006, its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 9.4 billion, generated by its three sectors of activity: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay (Euronext : SOLB.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLBt.BR) is listed on the Euronext stock exchange in Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com

2007/10/15 Solvay

Solvay signs agreement to sell Caprolactones business to Perstorp
　　Focusing on activities where the Group has maximum control over raw materials

Solvay announces today that it has signed a sale & purchase agreement with the Perstorp Group of Sweden to sell the latter its entire Caprolactones business, which is active in the production, marketing and sales of epsilon-Caprolactone. The transaction is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2007, pending the relevant regulatory approvals. The agreed price for the transaction is EUR 200 million.

Solvay’s Caprolactones business - which is part of the Group’s Chemicals Sector - serves clients worldwide, from a manufacturing site located in Warrington (United Kingdom). These activities generated a turnover of about EUR 60 million in 2006 with 65 employees.

The transaction would enable Solvay’s Caprolactones business to integrate a world leader in several segments of the specialty chemicals market, which considers these products as a core development area. Perstorp today announced its intention to expand and double production capacity in caprolactone and downstream derivatives .

Solvay’s strategy in the chemicals sector includes the pursuit of technological innovation and the development of specialties. Specific areas of interest relate to activities where Solvay covers the entire value chain, from the original raw materials to the most sophisticated research-intensive applications. In the case of Caprolactones, Solvay does not control the supply of the main raw material, cyclohexanone.

In addition, the caprolactones business does not result in significant synergies with the Group’s other activities in the Chemicals and Plastics sectors.

“Solvay’s priority is sustainable, profitable growth in selected areas of pharmaceuticals, chemicals and plastics. Meeting those objectives in Caprolactones required a major effort. After careful consideration, Solvay came to the conclusion that this business would enjoy the best development prospects outside the Group’s perimeter. The present agreement not only holds the promise of a bright future for Solvay´s Caprolactones but also matches Solvay’s corporate strategy,” explained Jorge Grande, Caprolactones SBU Manager of Solvay.

“We believe that a combination of Perstorp and Caprolactones is a compelling opportunity, enabling a deeper upstream/downstream integration into polyols. This combination would be beneficial to both companies, not only due to the potential for technical and revenue synergies, but also as the greater critical size will create a more stable platform for even stronger growth, notably organic,” explained Bo Dankis, President and CEO of Perstorp.

PERSTORP is a Swedish-based specialty chemical company, world leader in the production of oxo chemicals and polyols, derived mainly from propylene and methanol. Perstorp´s products are used in the aerospace, marine, coatings, chemicals, plastics, engineering and construction industries. Perstorp currently employs approximately 1,800 people and has manufacturing units in ten countries in Asia, Europe, North and South America. In 2006, Perstorp achieved revenues of EUR 780 million. Details are available at www.perstorp.com

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs some 29,000 people in 50 countries. In 2006, its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 9.4 billion, generated by its three sectors of activity: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay (Euronext: SOLB.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLBt.BR) is listed on the Euronext stock exchange in Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com

Notes to the Editors:

Caprolactone: The existing portfolio of Caprolactones products marketed by Solvay under the CAPA（R） brand includes a wide range of commercial products used in applications such as paints & coatings, thermoplastic polyurethanes, adhesives, cast elastomers as well as in different solutions for the automotive, aerospace, medical and shoe industries.

Oct 17,2007 Solvay

Pipelife starts up production in new russian factory
　　Solvay Affiliate Expands into One of Europe’s Fastest Growing Markets

Solvay announces today that its affiliate for pipes and fittings, Pipelife, has started operating a new factory located 130km southwest of Moscow, in the middle of one of Europe’s fastest growing economies. Pipelife will produce a full range of plastic pipe systems for water distribution, sewage networks as well as in-house products. The factory, which features brand new equipment, will offer the most advanced products in Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene (PE) as well as Vinyls, to cover the growing needs of the Russian customers. In a first stage, the factory will employ around 60 people.

Pipelife has been operating for over 5 years in the Russian market through its sales office in Moscow. Miguel Kohlmann, the CEO of Pipelife commented the production start as follows: “Pipelife has a leading position in the markets of Eastern Europe. It started its first operations back in 1990 and now is present in virtually every country of the region. The start up of the new Russian factory highlights the commitment the group has to Eastern Europe and specifically to its largest market Russia”.

The Pipelife Group is a 50/50 joint venture between Wienerberger, the Austrian construction materials manufacturer, and Solvay. It is one of Europe’s leading Plastic Pipes and Fittings groups. It is active in 29 countries and operates 30 factories with 2.800 employees achieving pro-forma sales of EUR 823 million in 2006.

2007/11/29 Solvay

Solvay signs agreement to sell polypropelene compounding activity to Basell
　　Focusing on activities where the Group has better opportunities to create business value

Solvay announces today that it has signed a Stock Purchase Agreement with Basell to sell the latter 100% of its subsidiary Solvay Engineered Polymers (SEP), a leading supplier of polypropylene compounds. Pending relevant regulatory approval, the transaction is expected to be completed early in 2008.

SEP, which is essentially active in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) region, has operations in Mansfield and Grand Prairie, Texas, as well as in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The company is also represented in Europe and China through sales offices. The annual sales of SEP account for less than 2% of the turnover of the Solvay group.

Solvay is committed to the development and manufacturing of specialty polymers, in a drive to offer the world’s broadest range of high performance and ultra-high performance materials. However, the strategic fit of SEP’s polypropylene compounding activities has become limited within Solvay’s Plastics Sector because, among other reasons, the Group completed the divestiture of its polypropylene resin production in 2001.

“Over the past years, SEP has made great progress in expanding its product and application range,” commented Vincenzo Morici, General Manager of the Specialty Polymers Strategic Business Unit, Solvay. “Joining Basell is now the right way forward for SEP, as it will provide the company with upstream integration into key raw materials, and access to complementary technologies and market segments. We strongly believe that Basell will reinforce the technological capabilities of SEP in the polypropylene compounding business,” Morici added.

“The acquisition of Solvay Engineered Polymers will complement Basell's existing Polymer-based Composite Materials and Alloys (PCMA) business in North America and by combining these businesses, we will be better positioned to serve our customers in this region with products that meet their needs,” said Paul Yeates, President of Basell Advanced Polyolefins. “In addition, there will be an excellent opportunity to learn from one another and combine each other’s application and product-development strengths.”

BASELL is the world’s largest producer of advanced polyolefins and polypropylene; a leading supplier of polyethylene and catalysts, and one of the industry leaders in licensing polypropylene and polyethylene processes, including providing technical services for its proprietary technologies. Basell, together with its joint ventures, has manufacturing facilities in 19 countries and sells products in more than 120 countries. Basell had sales of approximately $13 billion in 2006. Basell is privately owned by Access Industries. (www.basell.com)

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs some 29,000 people in 50 countries. In 2006, its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 9.4 billion, generated by its three sectors of activity: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay (NYSE Euronext: SOLB.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLBt.BR) is listed on the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com

December 14, 2007 Solvay

Solvay Indupa will produce bioethanol-based vinyl in Brasil & considers state-of-the-art power generation in Argentina

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) Derived from Sugar Cane and Salt

Solvay announces today that the Board of its affiliate Solvay Indupa has approved a further USD 135 million investment program to expand and increase the competitiveness of its vinyls production plant of Santo Andre, Brazil. This second stage of expansion, following the plan announced in August 2006, comprises the creation of an integrated plant to produce ethylene with ethanol originating from sugar cane. Ethylene is one of the two main feedstocks needed to manufacture polyvinyl chloride (PVC) - together with chlorine, which is produced through a salt-based electrolysis process.
Santo Andre would be the first industrial project in the Americas implementing renewable resources for the production of PVC. This innovation will prevent the emission of large quantities of C02 into the atmosphere.
Solvay Indupa’s ambition is to complete the expansion of Santo Andre by 2010. The plant would then have an installed capacity of 360,000 tons/year of PVC; 360,000 tons /year of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), 235,000 tons/year of Caustic Soda and 60,000 tons/year of bio-ethylene.

will increase its output of sodium hydroxide by 65,000 mt/year, vinyl chloride monomer by 50,000 mt/year and PVC by 55,000 mt/year,

Solvay Indupa is also studying with Argentinean energy group Albanesi S.A. the construction of a 165 megawatt combined cycle electrical power plant on Solvay Indupa’s site in Bahia Blanca, Argentina. The project would require an investment of USD 135 million and would provide for a reliable and competitive coverage of the site’s entire energy needs.

In order to finance these investments, Solvay Indupa is considering a capital increase of approximately USD 130 million, to be placed in local and international capital markets through Brazilian Depositary Receipts (BDRs) at the Sao Paulo Stock Exchange (Bovespa).
“Latin American markets are among the most promising targets of our geographical expansion,” commented Jacques van Rijckevorsel, General Manager of the Plastics Sector, Solvay. “Demand for vinyl products is experiencing continued and dynamic growth there. With these ambitious expansion plans, Solvay Indupa will be at the leading edge of competitiveness and innovation to serve the fast-growing Latin American economies with sustainable vinyl material,” added Jacques van Rijckevorsel.
The Solvay group is one of the world’s leading vinyls producer, ranking second in Europe and third globally. In addition to SolVin, its joint venture with BASF in Europe, the Group’s activities in PVC and other products of the vinyl chain span across Asia and Latin America, through the affiliates Vinythai in Thailand and Solvay Indupa in Argentina and Brazil.?

Solvay Indupa, a company of the Solvay group, is one of the most important petrochemical companies in the Mercosur. Its main products are PVC resins and Caustic Soda. Solvay Indupa has its main offices in Buenos Aires, Argentina and two industrial sites: in Bahia Blanca (Argentina) and Santo Ande(Brazil). Solvay holds 70.1% of Solvay Indupa, which is listed on the Buenos Aires stock market.
SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels.? It employs some 29,000 people in 50 countries.? In 2006, its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 9.4 billion, generated by its three sectors of activity:? Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals.? Solvay (NYSE Euronext: SOLB.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLBt.BR) is listed on the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com

July 9, 2008 Solvay

Solvay Pharmaceuticals S.A. increases to eur 6.50 per share its initial tender offer to acquire Innogenetics

Solvay Pharmaceuticals S.A., a subsidiary of Solvay, the chemical and pharmaceutical group, today announced that it will increase its initial conditional tender offer to acquire Innogenetics N.V., a Belgian-based biotechnological company, in a cash transaction valued at EUR 6.50 per share.

Solvay launched an initial tender offer on 25 April 2008 at EUR 5.75 per share. Another bidder tabled a counteroffer on 3 June 2008.

The proposed transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2008, the first steps being for Belgium’s Banking, finance and insurance commission (CBFA) to approve the takeover prospectus, and thereafter for the Board of Innogenetics to take position on this new offer.

The proposed transaction is subject to the following closing conditions:

(a) no material adverse change in connection with Innogenetics resulting in a loss exceeding EUR 10 million; and
(b) an acceptance threshold of at least 75%.

The commitment towards the proposed transaction with Solvay of the reference shareholders of Innogenetics (Rudi Marien, Biovest CVA, Marigest Holding SA, S.A.T.E. SA and Gengest BVBA), who jointly hold 18.48% of the shares of the company, remains in full force and effect.

All antitrust clearances required prior to closing the transaction have already been obtained.

With Solvay’s new offer, the transaction value is EUR 200.7 million for 100% of the outstanding shares. This represents a 74% premium to the closing price of 24 April 2008, the day before the announcement of Solvay’s initial offer, and a 61% premium to the volume weighted average prices of Innogenetics shares over the preceding month. In addition, as part of the offer, Solvay will offer to purchase based on the offer price, the Innogenetics warrants and convertible bonds.

SOLVAY PHARMACEUTICALS S.A. is a Belgian fully-owned subsidiary of Solvay Pharmaceuticals.

SOLVAY PHARMACEUTICALS is a research driven group of companies that constitutes the global pharmaceutical business of the Solvay Group. The company seeks to fulfill carefully selected, unmet medical needs in the therapeutic areas of neuroscience, cardiometabolic, influenza vaccines, gastroenterology and men's and women's health. Its 2007 sales were EUR 2.6 billion, and it employs more than 9,000 people worldwide. For more information, visit www.solvaypharmaceuticals.com.

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs more than 28,000 people in 50 countries. In 2007, its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 9.6 billion, generated by its three sectors of activity: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay is listed on the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Brussels (NYSE Euronext: SOLB.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLBt.BR). Details are available at www.solvay.com

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April 25, 2008 Solvay

SOLVAY PHARMACEUTICALS S.A. LAUNCHES FRIENDLY BID TO ACQUIRE INNOGENETICS
Building on a successful R&D co-operation

Solvay Pharmaceuticals S.A., a subsidiary of Solvay, the chemical and pharmaceutical group, and Innogenetics N.V., the biotechnological company, today jointly announced that Solvay Pharmaceuticals S.A. will make a conditional tender offer to acquire Innogenetics in a cash transaction valued at EUR 5.75 per share.

Solvay initially entered into an R&D co-operation with Innogenetics in 1997 and has been implementing Innogenetics’ technologies in its own drug discovery efforts. In the context of this long-standing relationship, Solvay historically holds a shareholding in Innogenetics (6.77%).

Solvay endorses Innogenetics’ recent strategic decision to focus on diagnostics activities and to divest its subsidiary GENimmune, which develops novel immune therapeutics. Solvay intends to preserve the operational autonomy of Innogenetics, while continuing the development and expansion of the company’s diagnostics business. In addition, both companies’ R&D competencies will be leveraged to accelerate the development of Solvay’s therapeutic pipeline through the implementation of biomarker, diagnostics and eventually companion diagnostics technologies.

“Following the recent refocusing of Innogenetics’ activities, the time has now come to take our long-standing relationship to a new level,” said Werner Cautreels, CEO, Solvay Pharmaceuticals. “The business model would be based on the expansion of Innogenetics’ diagnostics business and on our belief that the future of drug development lies in the design of personalized treatments with improved safety and efficacy. Adding Innogenetics technologies to Solvay’s Research programs will help identify the best possible treatment for different patient groups,” he added.

The proposed transaction is expected to close in the second calendar quarter of 2008 and is subject to the following closing conditions:

(a) approval by the competent competition authorities;
(b) no material adverse change in connection with Innogenetics resulting in a loss exceeding EUR 10 million; and
(c) an acceptance threshold of at least 90% + 1 of the outstanding shares of Innogenetics, which can be reduced to 75% + 1 share, subject to a modification in the articles of association (to introduce a “one share, one vote” principle, without any voting restrictions whatsoever).

The transaction value is ?177.6 million for 100% of the outstanding shares. This represents a 53% premium to the closing price of 23 April, 2008 and a 42.8% premium to the volume average prices of Innogenetics shares over the preceding month. In addition, as part of the offer, Solvay will offer to purchase based on the offer price, the Innogenetics warrants and convertible bonds.


The board of directors of Innogenetics unanimously considers the offer to be friendly and supports it, subject to review of the takeover prospectus of Solvay and of the advice of the Works Council of Innogenetics. The board will explain its support in more detail in the memorandum of reply which it will issue in accordance with article 22 of the Belgian Takeover act of April 1, 2007. Pending the takeover bid, the board of directors of Innogenetics intends to continue to implement its earlier decision with respect to the restructuring and/or divestiture of its subsidiary GENimmune.

The reference shareholders of Innogenetics (Rudi Marien, Biovest CVA, Marigest Holding SA, S.A.T.E. SA and Gengest BVBA), who jointly hold 18.48% of the shares of the company, have committed to tender their shares to Solvay in the tender offer.

Petercam SA/NV has acted as advisor to Solvay and will act as centralizing agent in the offer.

SOLVAY PHARMACEUTICALS S.A. is a Belgian fully-owned subsidiary of Solvay Pharmaceuticals.

SOLVAY PHARMACEUTICALS is a research driven group of companies that constitutes the global pharmaceutical business of the Solvay Group. The company seeks to fulfill carefully selected, unmet medical needs in the therapeutic areas of neuroscience, cardiometabolic, influenza vaccines, gastroenterology and men's and women's health. Its 2007 sales were EUR 2.6 billion, and it employs more than 9,000 people worldwide. For more information, visit www.solvaypharmaceuticals.com.

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs more than 28,000 people in 50 countries. In 2007, its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 9.6 billion, generated by its three sectors of activity: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay is listed on the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Brussels (NYSE Euronext: SOLB.BE - Bloomberg: SOLB.BB - Reuters: SOLB.BR). Details are available at www.solvay.com

INNOGENETICS NV (NYSE Euronext: INNX) is an international biotechnological company that develops and markets diagnostic products to improve therapy management and patient health. Innogenetics develops and markets a wide range of diagnostic assays with a focus on molecular diagnostics and multiparameter testing. Its products are sold in over 90 countries through its 6 subsidiaries and a large number of distributors. In 2007, Diagnostics sales totalled EUR 47 million, more than 95% of which were achieved outside Belgium. Founded in 1985, Innogenetics is listed on NYSE Euronext Brussels.


Notes to the editor:
Biomarker : A biochemical feature that can be used to diagnose or measure the progress of a disease or the effects of a treatment.

Diagnostic: A biochemical test used to identify the nature of a medical condition, or to determine whether a specified disease or disease process is present in a living organism.

Companion diagnostics: a diagnostic that is both prognostic about the disease and predictive about the patient’s response to a specific therapy.

2008/10/1 Solvay

Belgian Solvay to convert French chlor-alkali unit to membrane

Belgium's Solvay will invest Eur55 million ($78 million) at its chlor-alkali production site at Tavaux, France to transform its mercury-based electrolysis process to membrane technology.

Work on the new unit, which should cut electricity consumption and reduce the environmental impact of the Tavaux site, will be completed by the end of 2010, the company said in a statement.

There will be no expansion of the plant's current 360,000 mt/yr capacity.

Chlorine produced at Tavaux is used as a feedstock for the company's vinyls production facilities at the same site while caustic soda is sold into the European market.

Solvay benefits from a previously announced participation in a consortium called Exeltium which aims to provide long-term electricity supply at competitive prices.

The company said: "Now this particular investment provides an additional guarantee as to the durability and development of both the Tavaux site and Solvay's presence in France."

The European chlor-alkali industry has a longstanding voluntary agreement through its industry body, Euro Chlor, to convert chlor-alkali plants from mercury to the more efficient membrane technology. The final phase-out is due to complete by 2020.

Last year membrane overtook mercury as the leading chlor-alkali technology, accounting for some 43% of production against 38% for mercury-based plants.

September 29, 2008 Solvay

Solvay invests EUR 55 milion in reduced electricity consumption and lower environmental impact of its electrolytic unit at Tavaux (F)Launch of membrane-based electrolytic technology

The Solvay Group announced its decision today to invest EUR 55 million at its Tavaux site in the Jura (France) for the conversion of part of its mercury-based electrolysis into one based on membranes. The new unit will be operational by the end of 2010.
The annual chlorine production capacity at the Tavaux plant will be maintained at the current level of 360,000 metric tonnes, but most of the chlorine production at the new Tavaux unit will be produced through membrane-based electrolysis. Chlorine made by Solvay is an intermediate product the Group put to full use downstream. At Tavaux, it will be used primarily to feed the fully integrated vinyl production line.
From an economic point of view, the conversion will allow a reduction in electricity consumption, always particularly high in the electrolytic sector. This investment in one of its most important production sites worldwide is another step in Solvay’s strategy to further strengthen its competitive position in the area of electrochemistry.
In the context of continuously soaring energy prices, the Solvay Group had already announced its participation in the Exeltium consortium, ensuring long term electricity supply at competitive rates. Now this particular investment provides an additional guarantee as to the durability and the development of both the Tavaux site and Solvay’s presence in France.
In addition, this investment will contribute to a further reduction of the environmental impact of the Tavaux site, even if the technologies currently in use already meet extremely tight regulations.

2008/10/20　Solvay

Solvay acquires Alexandria Sodium Carbonate company in Egypt
“Expansion into growing Egyptian, Middle Eastern and North-African markets”

Solvay announces today that it has entered into a final agreement for the acquisition of the acquisition of 100% of Alexandria Sodium Carbonate Company (ASCC) from Holding Company for Chemical Industries (HCCI), an Egyptian State-owned holding company. The operation is part of Solvay’s geographical expansion strategy and will allow the Group to attend to the growing needs of Egyptian consumers and to support the projects of its customers in the fast-growing Middle-Eastern and North-African (MENA) markets.

Solvay had emerged as the preferred bidder as a result of the final auction which the Egyptian authorities organized on March 27, 2008 - valuing ASCC at 760 million Egypt pounds (EUR 100 million).

ASCC produces both sodium carbonate ソーダ灰 and quicklime 生石灰; it is Egypt’s only sodium carbonate producer and primarily serves the domestic market. ASCC’s plant was erected in 1974 near the city of Alexandria. It was thoroughly modernized at the end of the 1990s and currently has a nameplate production capacity of 130,000 metric tons of soda ash.

“Solvay welcomes this opportunity to become an industrial operator in Egypt, at the heart of a new market with exciting growth prospects,” said Christian Jourquin, CEO of the Solvay group. “As it does in all countries where it operates, Solvay will endeavor to develop its Egyptian activities in a sustainable and responsible manner, so as to deserve the confidence of its clients and suppliers, its personnel and the Egyptian authorities,” added Vincent De Cuyper, General Manager of the Chemicals Sector.

“With this acquisition, Solvay gains a privileged access to the very dynamic Egyptian market,” commented Christine Tahon, Managing Director of Solvay’s Strategic Business Unit Soda Ash and Related Products. “Solvay will continue the development initiated by HCCI and ASCC, which aims at rapidly increasing annual production capacity to 200,000 metric tons of sodium carbonate. In the longer term, Solvay considers producing up to 500,000 tons per year at the Alexandria plant, to serve not only Egypt but also the vibrant Middle-Eastern and North-African markets by using the facilities at the port of Alexandria,” added Tahon.

SOLVAY is an international chemical and pharmaceutical Group with headquarters in Brussels. It employs more than 28,000 people in 50 countries. In 2007, its consolidated sales amounted to EUR 9.6 billion, generated by its three sectors of activity: Chemicals, Plastics and Pharmaceuticals. Solvay is listed on the NYSE Euronext stock exchange in Brussels. Details are available at www.solvay.com

NOTES TO THE EDITORS
Sodium carbonate (also known as or soda ash - Na2CO3) is a widely used chemical whose largest application is glass manufacturing, which accounts for approximately 60% of total consumption. Other outlets include the chemical and the detergent industries. Sodium carbonate is produced worldwide using the manufacturing process initially developed by Ernest Solvay, which utilizes common salt and limestone. Sodium carbonate can also be derived from a mineral, trona.

The Solvay group was founded in 1863 to implement the Solvay process at an industrial scale. Today, Solvay is the world’s leading manufacturer of sodium carbonate, with a total annual production capacity of 7 million metric tons originating from eight production sites in Europe and the United States. Recent significant developments of Solvay’s sodium carbonate activity include the acquisition of Tenneco’s trona mines in Green River, Wyoming, USA (1992), the purchase of Sodi in Bulgaria (1997), the acquisition of American Soda, Colorado, USA (2003) and of Alexandria Sodium Carbonate Company, Egypt (2008).

Sales of Sodium carbonate account for approximately 10% of the Solvay group’s global turnover.