HOUSTON, TX -- (Marketwire) -- 08/26/09 -- Kraton Polymers LLC (Kraton), a leading global producer of engineered polymers, recently introduced NEXAR(TM) polymers. The new NEXAR polymers family offers a unique set of key performance attributes that can be used in a myriad of applications, ranging from water desalination, to industrial separation applications, to improving high performance textiles and clothing. The unique permselectivity of NEXAR membranes allows for a tremendous flow of moisture in one direction while blocking other substances such as potentially harmful chemicals.

"We are pleased with the positive customer responses we have received since we introduced NEXAR polymers," commented Jim Dieter, Vice President of Marketing Development. "The early success of NEXAR polymers is a good indication of the interest in an innovative moisture management system that is compatible for high performance athletic apparel, outdoor survival equipment (tents, sleeping bags etc.), military uniforms and biochemical garments. We strongly believe NEXAR polymers' superior performance is unmatched by the competitive materials currently available in the marketplace."

Kraton's most recent innovation breathes new life and opportunity into a market that has not experienced a real change in quite sometime. NEXAR membranes and coatings provide unique solutions to the textile industry. These polymers allow large amounts of moisture to be moved away from the skin very quickly to maintain a comfortable microclimate for the human body. As the human body's temperature rises, the NEXAR polymers' breathability performance allows the membranes to work better and become more efficient. Unlike other membranes that clog and lose performance, NEXAR nonporous membranes maintain constant performance over an extended period of time.

Kraton's new innovation allows the user to select the application process and equipment that best suits the products. NEXAR membranes have been engineered to provide superior performance in commercial application equipment.

Key benefits of NEXAR polymers in breathable fabrics

--  Excellent moisture transmission rates
--  Flexible processing freedom (easily applied using current commercial
    equipment)
--  High strength in wet and dry environments
--  Performance improves as temperature increases
--  Apply as single or multi-laminate process
    

For more information on NEXAR polymers, visit our website at www.nexarpolymers.com. In addition, customer questions and other direct inquiries may be addressed to info@kraton.com or Todd Schroeder, Manager Development Manager, at todd.schroeder@kraton.com.

About Kraton

Kraton is a leading global producer of engineered polymers and, we believe, the world's largest producer of styrenic block copolymers (SBCs), a family of products whose chemistry was pioneered by us over forty years ago. SBCs are highly-engineered thermoplastic elastomers, which enhance the performance of numerous products by delivering a variety of attributes, including greater flexibility, resilience, strength, durability and processability. Kraton polymers are used in a wide range of applications, including adhesives, coatings, consumer and personal care products, sealants, lubricants, medical, packaging, automotive, paving, roofing and footwear products. Kraton has the leading position in nearly all of its core markets and is the only producer of SBCs with global manufacturing capability. Kraton's production facilities are located in the United States, Germany, France, The Netherlands, Brazil and Japan.

Kraton, the Kraton logo and design, and the "Giving Innovators their Edge" tagline are trademarks of Kraton Polymers LLC. In addition, NEXAR is a trademark of Kraton Polymers LLC.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" which are statements other than statements of historical fact and are often characterized by the use of words such as "believes," "expects," "estimates," "projects," "may," "will," "intends," "plans" or "anticipates," or by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions. All forward-looking statements in this press release are made based on management's current expectations and estimates, which involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. We assume no obligation to update such information.

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