KINGSTON, Ontario, June 23, 2006 – Production of an innovative DuPont material, offering industry and consumers with performance breakthroughs in a range of rubber-based products, was officially launched today at the company’s Research, Development and Engineering Centre in Kingston, Ontario.

This innovative material is a composite of an elastomer and Kevlar^® pulp.  The strength of DuPont^™ Kevlar^® fibre, most frequently known for helping to save lives in bullet-resistant protective apparel – also provides significant performance improvements in this new form in products such as automotive, motorcycle and bicycle tires, hoses and belts, seals and gaskets, rubber-covered rolls, pump liners, diaphragms and molded goods.  More specifically, it helps improve properties like modulus and wear resistance without having a negative impact on other critical rubber properties.

“We are excited to officially launch the production of this innovative DuPont performance material in Kingston, which builds on our 50-year history of expertise in materials science, complex process development and the successful commercialization of innovative products,” said Nicolas Cudré-Mauroux, who leads the Kingston Research, Development and Engineering Centre. 

“Today’s launch is a result of the outstanding commitment and professionalism of DuPont’s Kingston employees,” said Mr. Cudré-Mauroux.  “For the future, we’re seeking to build on this success and go beyond manufacturing to also perform significant development work that will expand the use of this unique process to other applications.”

Previous research into the use of this engineered elastomer with Kevlar^® in automotive tires, for example, showed significant improvements in ride and handling, reduced rolling resistance and heat generation, and increased durability.  Increased wear resistance is of special environmental interest, since it can help to extend the life of the tire.  Similar results were achieved in bicycle and motorcycle tires, which also demonstrated improved puncture resistance.

DuPont Canada’s Kingston Centre is a world leader in the combined development of polymer products and processes that supports DuPont businesses around the world.  Almost 200 scientists, engineers, technologists, technicians, tradespeople and administrative and support staff all contribute to the Centre’s success.

DuPont Canada is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, and has 1,100 employees located at offices and facilities across the country.

DuPont is a science company.    Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere.   Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and protection, home and construction, transportation and apparel.