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Abstract:
Writable Waterproof Paper at 500 Percent Lower Cost

Ecology Coatings Develops Cost-Effective Process for Producing Mildew-Resistant Waterproof Paper

Akron, Ohio | August 10, 2005

Ecology Coatings, Inc., a leading provider of nano-engineered ultraviolet curable coatings, announced today that it has used its proprietary coating technology to develop a cost-effective process for producing waterproof, mildew resistant paper. The process impregnates ordinary paper with Ecology Coatings’ nanoparticle technology, maintaining the original performance properties of the paper even after being fully immersed in water. Unlike conventional waterproofing techniques involving vinyl coatings, polypropylene or other synthetic papers, Ecology Coatings’ method produces waterproof, wood pulp-based paper that can be used with pencil as well as a variety of inks.

Replacing the existing method of using compressed polypropylene fibers to coat paper, Ecology Coating’s nanoparticle imbuing process cuts waterproof paper production costs by 500 percent. The paper also inhibits the growth of mildew, adding further protective value to the Ecology Coatings paper. Ideal for outdoor use, packaging labels, and other paper applications at risk of damage, the coating technique maintains the paper’s original writable performance without the highly slick surface typical of the waterproof paper currently available to the market.

“Our coating technology generates an effective barrier against moisture and inhibits mildew growth while preserving the feel and performance of regular paper, a combination of characteristics that’s simply not available from current waterproofing techniques,” said Rich Stromback, CEO of Ecology Coatings. “Initially the high-performance, cost-saving waterproof paper will benefit industries that already invest in special labels or protective paper. For example, waterproof labels on shipping materials can now be cheaply manufactured and then left in the rain without bagging, further reducing material costs. With exciting applications as a low-cost waterproofing material and a mildew-resistant surface, the paper also has interesting potential beyond those current uses.”

Exhibiting a completely new set of performance and application properties, Ecology Coatings’ nano-engineered products are easily integrated into today’s manufacturing infrastructure. The proprietary 100 percent solids formulations contain no water, toxic solvents or other liquid components that need to evaporate for the coating to set; a characteristic that eliminates the need for heat in the process, reduces manufacturing line space by 80 percent, cuts energy consumption by 75 percent and dramatically decreases EPA reporting requirements. The unique properties of Ecology Coatings’ liquid nanotechnology make the coatings ideal for driving efficiencies and innovation across a broad range of applications including paper, electronics, metals and plastic.

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About Ecology Coatings, Inc.:
Ecology Coatings is a world leader in the development of nano-engineered, ultra-violet curable coatings. Using a platform of integrated nano-material technologies, the company creates proprietary coatings with unique performance attributes. Ecology collaborates with industry leaders to develop revolutionary high-value, high-performance coatings for military, automotive, industrial, electronic and medical applications. Ecology Coatings is a privately held company based in Akron, Ohio.

For more information, please visit www.ecologycoatings.com

Media Contact:
Rosalind Jackson
Antenna Group (for Ecology Coatings)
rosalind@antennagroup.com
415-977-1923

Copyright © Ecology Coatings

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