Rohm and Haas Declares Force Majeure on Acrylate, Methacrylate and Specialty Monomers

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rohm and Haas Company (NYSE:ROH) today said that, while its own facilities in the Houston area fared reasonably well through the effects of Hurricane Ike, multiple disruptions among suppliers and distributors along the Ship Channel have prevented the company from bringing its Bayport and Deer Park plants back on line. Due to events beyond its control, the company is declaring force majeure on the acrylate, methacrylate and specialty monomer products made at these two sites. This will apply equally to both internal and external customers.

The company noted that minor repairs and cleanup efforts are underway in both Bayport and Deer Park. However, restarting the plants is dependent upon being able to get needed raw material and energy resources.

The Deer Park and Bayport facilities supply the external market and downstream Rohm and Haas businesses with monomers which ultimately are used to make consumer products such as architectural and industrial paints, varnishes, adhesives, floor polishes, paper coatings, textiles, and a range of other products.

The company said it is unable to provide an estimate of the possible implication these actions might have on its financial performance at this time, but will continue to provide regular updates on its progress in restarting these facilities and restoring full product supply.

About Rohm and Haas Company

Leading the way since 1909, Rohm and Haas is a global pioneer in the creation and development of innovative technologies and solutions for the specialty materials industry. The company’s technologies are found in a wide range of industries including: Building and Construction, Electronics and Electronic Devices, Household Goods and Personal Care, Packaging and Paper, Transportation, Pharmaceutical and Medical, Water, Food and Food Related, and Industrial Process. Innovative Rohm and Haas technologies and solutions help to improve life every day, around the world. Based in Philadelphia, PA, the company generated annual sales of approximately $8.9 billion in 2007. Visit www.rohmhaas.com for more information. imagine the possibilities™