THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS (August 14, 2006) – Expanding its diverse product portfolio for styrenic polymers, Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP (Chevron Phillips Chemical) introduces K-Resin^® XK44 styrene butadiene copolymer (SBC), a resin designed specifically for rigid packaging applications.

A tough copolymer with low stress whitening in blends with other styrenics, K-Resin^® XK44 SBC is easier to process than most rigid packaging resins, making it a preferred solution to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). K-Resin^® XK44 SBC has a low melt temperature of 350-425°F and requires no recrystallization. It is also non-hygroscopic, eliminating the need for drying.

“As a custom-designed resin, K-Resin^® XK44 SBC offers customers more options in rigid packaging applications,” said Kyle Mathis, K-Resin^® SBC sales manager. “This innovative styrenics solution is an excellent choice for packaging needs in the medical, electronic, personal care, and consumer markets.”

K-Resin^® XK44 SBC is known for its high clarity and can be used as a stand-alone resin or blended with other polymers. Unlike other resins on the market, K-Resin^® XK44 SBC retains its clarity and toughness when blended with crystal polystyrene or other applicable styrenic copolymers. Customers may also note the density advantage of K-Resin^® XK44 SBC (1.01 g/cc), which can provide an economic advantage over alternative clear polymers.

Another advantage of K-Resin^® XK44 SBC is its potential to be recycled by processors and consumers alike. To reduce waste, processors may combine K-Resin^® SBC reground plastic scrap with virgin K-Resin^® SBC. A multiple pass regrind study demonstrated that K-Resin^® SBC maintains its strength and clarity after 7 reprocessing passes. As a styrenics solution, K-Resin^® SBC is post-consumer recyclable using the resin identification code “6” under the SPI voluntary container coding system.

K-Resin^® XK44 SBC is currently being sold commercially and is available worldwide to help meet retailers’ rising demand for clear packaging solutions. For more product information, or to speak with a sales representative, call 1-800-231-1212 or visit http://www.k-resin.com/.