February 2004

Dow Introduces Next Best Thing Since Sliced Bread

Midland, MI— The Dow Chemical Company has introduced a series of new crystalline polymers for use in water and food contact applications, such as water transport and purification systems. Known as the QUESTRA series, the new polymers comply with EU and FDA regulations and can be injection-molded into a variety of shapes and sizes.

The first commercial food contact application using the new QUESTRA polymer is the Q-PAN® industrial baking pan from Anneliese Mertes GmbH. The pan was recently awarded the IBA trophy at the 2003 International Bakery Show. This award is given to the most innovative products at the show.

“We believe that the introduction of QUESTRA polymers for water contact applications marks a breakthrough in this industry,” said Tom Fiola, Commercial Manager QUESTRA Crystalline Polymers. “The combination of properties of the QUESTRA polymers put cost-competitive, sustainable alternatives for plastics and metal applications within the reach of producers of water transport and purification systems worldwide. The industrial baking pans - the first commercial application - illustrate some of these advantages.”

Q-PAN baking pans save energy and costs, and provide environmental and ergonomic advantages. QUESTRA polymers give Q-PAN its non-stick quality. Since it won’t “scratch off”, there is no need for regular recoating. Baking pans made of QUESTRA don’t need to be greased, so they can be cleaned by regular dishwashing, instead of needing solvents to clean the greased metal. In addition, the all-plastic pan weighs 75 percent less than ordinary metal tins, making it easier to handle in commercial baking quantities. QUESTRA polymers also provide excellent thermal transfer, reducing baking time and energy consumption - even giving bread a better crust.