Degussa launches innovative new surface refinement

Dusseldorf, Germany (ots) - Degussa AG of Dusseldorf has developed
a unique surface refinement technology called Top on Top. Surfaces
treated with Top on Top are easy to clean and remain clean for
months. The new technology significantly decreases the effort
required to keep surfaces clean and reduces the amount of cleaning
agent needed. Surfaces treated with Top on Top also retain their
original characteristics, such as hardness and luster. The finish,
which is invisible to the eye, also makes surfaces highly dirt- and
water-repellent. As a result, dirt no longer sticks stubbornly to the
surface, while water and oil bead into droplets that can easily be
wiped away.

The Degussa innovation is based on the principle of an extreme
surface energy reduction, thus explaining the combined water- and
oil-repellent effect. Top on Top provides invisible protection by
creating a network of millions of microstructures (also known as
micro-soobs). Unlike conventional water- or dirt-repellent agents, it
does not leave behind an undesirable film. Instead, individual active
substance molecules in the product form a strong bond with the
surface concerned.

Outstanding easy-to-clean effect

As a result of this bonding effect, the active substance molecules
group themselves into an optimal alignment. So the characteristics of
the Top on Top finish continue to improve during the first 24 hours.
This results in an easy-to-clean effect for months to come, meaning
that surfaces can simply be wiped with a dry cloth to stay clean.

Mix the product, apply it and you're done

The product is also labor-saving - the two components it involves
are easily blended and applied. During the next half hour the
micro-soobs group themselves in an optimal manner, resulting in the
special effects of the surface refinement agent. Laborious polishing
is not required.

To meet the different requirements of various materials, Degussa
has created special formulations for automotive windscreens and
ceramic surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms as well as an
anti-fingerprint version for use on stainless steel.

Top on Top is one of Degussa's outstanding innovations. Some 20
percent of the sales made by the global leader in specialty chemicals
are based on products and technologies developed over the past five
years.

Editorial note:
Images are available at:
http://www.degussa.com/degussa/en/press

Degussa is the global market leader in specialty chemicals. Our
business is creating essentials-innovative products and system
solutions that make indispensable contributions to our customers'
success. In fiscal 2005 around 44,000 employees worldwide generated
sales of 11.8 billion euros and operating profits (EBIT) of 940
million euros.

Originaltext: Degussa AG
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ISIN: DE0005421903

Contact:
Hannelore Gantzer
Spokeswoman
Corporate Communications
T +49-211-65041-368
F +49-211-65041-527
hannelore.gantzer@
degussa.com

Michael Schulze
Director Sales & Marketing
Creavis Technologies &
Innovation
T +49-2365-49-7187
F +49-2365-49-80 7187
michael.schulze
@degussa.com