Lyondell To Construct Deicer Test Lab

Lyondell Chemical (NYSE:LYO) has announced that it is building a state of the art deicing fluid testing facility at its Newtown Square, PA R&D site. Construction is expected to be completed in the fall of 2001.

According to Glenn Cozzone, business manager for Lyondell’s deicing and anti-icing fluids, the new facility will enable Lyondell to perform all certification tests required for advanced deicers, provide an enhanced level of customer service, and facilitate the company’s search for next generation deicing technology. "We intend to be a leader in aircraft deicing technology," he said. "Putting this test facility in place is an important milestone in achieving our objective."

The core of the facility is a climatic chamber designed to create the sub-ambient conditions (as low as –40º F) needed for SAE deicing, anti-icing and aerodynamic tests. A computer-controlled mini-wind tunnel apparatus also will be an important part of the lab. These two components, in conjunction with various monitoring and application devices, will enable the laboratory’s research chemists to quickly and efficiently evaluate the performance of a variety of deicing and anti-icing fluid formulations.

Lyondell supplies a complete line of PG-based aircraft deicing and anti-icing fluids in North America. These fluids offer worker safety advantages because propylene glycol is less toxic to humans and animals than non-propylene glycol based products . The company supplies deicing fluids to many of the U.S. largest passenger and cargo carriers as well as FBO's (Fixed Based Operators).

The company is a leading worldwide manufacturer and marketer of propylene oxide and derivatives and other intermediate chemicals. Its products are used in a wide range of consumer goods including home furnishings, athletic equipment, personal care products, paints and coatings, automotive components, antifreeze and reformulated gasoline as well as in industrial, construction and mining applications.

# # #

LAD-01-02

These news releases contain information that was current on the date of publication and are provided for reference only. Lyondell assumes no obligation to update or correct the information in these news releases.