Axens and Akzo Nobel Catalysts announce that they are marketing a jointly developed alkane isomerization catalyst after a significant combined program of development, testing and production. The companies report that the new product offers a major boost in isomerization activity while significantly reducing total fill weight. The new ATIS-2L reflects the combination and improvement of Akzo Nobel’s AT and Axens’ IS series catalysts.

To better serve our customers, Axens will actively market the catalyst for first fills and replacement loads in all Axens grassroots and revamped C₄ and C_5-6 isomerization units and Akzo Nobel will actively market the catalyst for replacement loads in all third party units.

Akzo Nobel Catalysts

Akzo Nobel Catalysts is a business unit of Akzo Nobel. Akzo Nobel, based in the Netherlands, serves customers throughout the world with healthcare products, coatings and chemicals. Consolidated sales for 2001 totaled EUR 14 billion. The Company currently employs over 67,000 people in 80 countries. Financial results for the third quarter will be published on October 23, 2002. For more information on Akzo Nobel Catalysts, please visit our web-site at www.akzonobel-catalysts.com