March 22, 2007 – Basell has developed a new HDPE grade, Lupolen 4261A IM, which can address the challenging requirements presented by customers for injection moulded components of automotive fuel tank applications.

Lupolen 4261A IM test data show that the resin can provide improved mechanical properties resulting in outstanding ESCR (Environment Stress Crack Resistance) and excellent low temperature impact resistance. Furthermore, it offers chemical compatibility with other plastic fuel tank grades used for the production of the tank shell. This grade is produced using Basell’s proprietary Spherilene technology and Avant C chromium catalyst. It is currently manufactured in Europe and is available for export on a global basis.

“Laboratory tests, computer aided engineering (CAE) simulations and processing trials have shown that Lupolen 4261A IM can enable customers to produce parts with outstanding durability, but without compromising machine throughput or welding behaviour,” said Hendrik Schönfelder, fuel tank business manager in Europe. “When combined with other Lupolen grades, Basell offers a complete portfolio of resins used by customers in all polyolefin fuel tank components.”

Since the 1960s, Basell (and its predecessor companies) has been developing polymers to exacting standards which have been used by fuel tank producers globally.  Basell will continue to play a leading role in the development of polymers in this application area, constantly improving the product range to address customers’ global needs.

Basell is the global leader in polyolefins technology, production and marketing. It is the largest producer of polypropylene and advanced polyolefin products; a leading supplier of polyethylene and catalysts, and the industry leader 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. Additional information about Basell, including the company’s 2006 Annual Report, is available at www.basell.com.

For more information contact Chantal Sohm, Basell Corporate Communications, at +33 1 555 12 119 or chantal.sohm@basell.com