EXTON, PA, October 27, 1999 /-Principia Partners announced today that it has begun a close working relationship with Edison Polymer Innovation Corporation (EPIC; Akron, OH) on nanocomposites. EPIC is providing technical guidance to assist the materials-focused market research firm in conducting a study of the commercial potential for nanocomposites. Lou Rossi of Principia stated "The staff of EPIC have closely followed the technical literature and have reviewed patents issued on nanocomposites over the past 10 years. Their contribution to our technology assessment and market models is invaluable."

Principia Partners is currently conducting the first comprehensive study of the potential market for nanocomposites. Nylon- and epoxy-based nanocomposites are currently commercially available, although nanocomposites based on polypropylene (e.g., automotive bumper systems) and PET (e.g., beer bottle packaging) are under development. A broad range of other polymers, ranging from EVOH to fluoropolymers are being evaluated in nanocomposite forms for use in packaging and consumer durables markets. Additionally, many polymer producers and nanomaterial suppliers have ongoing nanocomposite research efforts across commodity and engineering thermoplastics, thermosets, and elastomers to advance the technology to commercial state. The multi-client study will be completed in November 1999 and will provide a detailed assessment of the driving forces behind the development of these materials, the status of nanocomposite technology, and the potential market for nanocomposites.

The EPIC research consortium has planned a three year, $3 to $6 million program that involves more than 20 research projects at five leading research universities. First, the consortium will develop a working understanding of nanodispersion mechanisms, nanoparticle chemistry, rheology, processing capabilities and conversion capabilities. This "core technology" will support applied research in four application areas: Thermoplastics, Coatings, Elastomers, and Advanced Composites. Each application program will develop technology and products to exploit the mechanical, barrier and reinforcement properties of the nanoparticles.

EPIC will use the results of the Principia Partners study to direct future research efforts. Bill Overton, President of EPIC, noted "Understanding where the greatest market value potentially exists and how it may be captured will help us prioritize funding of research programs. EPIC will develop enabling technology so that nanocomposites can achieve major commercial impact."

For more information on Principia Partners, contact Lou Rossi (610-458-3738) or visit their web site at www.PrincipiaConsulting.com. For more information on EPIC and the research consortium, contact Jon Collister (330-668-9412) or Chuck Rivenburgh (330-668-9415).