Kraton to double capacity for polyisoprene latex

Houston, Texas -- Kraton Polymers LLC has announced that it will be constructing a new 1500 dry metric ton polyisoprene latex plant at its Paulinia, Brazil facility in response to strong demand from its medical and consumer product customers. The addition of this new plant would give Kraton the global capability to supply nearly 3,000 dry metric tons per annum.

The new plant is expected to be operational in the fourth quarter of 2006.

"Kraton is excited to be making a sizeable investment in the growth of the polyisoprene latex business. KRATON polyisoprene latex is a unique synthetic alternative to natural rubber latex for dipped goods and various specialty products. We recognize our customers' needs to have more material available to meet their customers' increasing requirements," said Eli Ben-Shoshan, Vice President -- Business Development.