Engelhard technology purifies drinking water from Cuba to Zambia

ISELIN, NJ, June 19, 2006 -- A unique chlorine dioxide release technology from Engelhard is helping provide emergency drinking water to inhabitants throughout many developing countries.

Engelhard has donated more than one million water purification tablets using its Aseptrol™ chlorine dioxide release agent to Heart to Heart International, which provides the technology to various medical groups serving communities including Cuba, Guatemala, Haiti, Indonesia, Peru, Tajikistan and Zambia.

Aseptrol technology releases chlorine dioxide, a powerful biocide, at precise rates and in controlled concentrations when it comes into contact with water or moisture. Available in tablets, powders and sachets, Aseptrol is used in numerous applications and is particularly cost-effective for use in water purification in poor and/or rural areas.

"We are honored to partner with Heart to Heart to provide people living in underserved regions with one of the most basic human necessities -- clean drinking water," said Michael Cochran, Engelhard's global sales and marketing manager for Aseptrol. "Our involvement is once again an example of how an Engelhard technology can help improve people's lives around the world."

Engelhard's first donation to Heart to Heart International came in the wake of the Tsunami Crisis in Southeast Asia in late 2004.

Engelhard hopes to continue expanding the uses of this versatile, anti-microbial technology into other end-use sanitization applications. Available for deployment when disasters strike, Engelhard Aseptrol water-purification tablets will be included in mobile medical packages stored at warehouses around the world.

"We are very appreciative of Engelhard's efforts in helping bring clean water to communities in need. We look forward to continuing our partnership with them for humanitarian and disaster-relief operations," said Eric Lacey, Corporate Relations Coordinator at Heart to Heart International.

Engelhard Aseptrol has secured multiple registrations from the EPA for use in:
fighting tuberculosis, HIV and many other pathogens in hospitals, medical offices and health-related facilities; removing contamination in dental unit water lines; controlling mold in swimming pool and other home applications; sanitizing hard, nonporous surfaces and utensils that come into contact with food; and fighting animal viruses in veterinary, lab animal science and biomedical research facilities, among other applications.

Heart to Heart International (www.hearttoheart.org) is a global 501(c)(3) humanitarian organization that inspires, empowers and mobilizes individuals to serve the needs of the poor in their communities and around the world. Heart to Heart accomplishes this mission through partnerships that promote health; alleviate hunger; offer resources, education and hope; and provide opportunities for meaningful service.

Engelhard Corp. (www.engelhard.com), a wholly owned subsidiary of BASF, is a world-leading provider of technologies for environmental, process, appearance and performance applications.

BASF (www.basf.com) 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. As a reliable partner to virtually all industries, BASF's intelligent system solutions and high-value products help its customers to be more successful. BASF develops new technologies and uses them to open up additional market opportunities. It combines economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility, thus contributing to a better future.

Also see:
-- "BASF completes acquisition of Engelhard Corp."
-- "Ashland, Engelhard team to reduce waste going to Texas landfills"

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