PPG technology officer says company to begin global initiative to leverage titanium dioxide expertise

PITTSBURGH, PA, Dec. 6, 2011 (Business Wire) - During PPG Industries' capital markets meeting yesterday with financial analysts and investors in New York, PPG Chief Technology Officer Charles F. Kahle II announced that the company has undertaken a strategic initiative with multiple global suppliers to secure and enhance PPG's supply of titanium dioxide, as well as add to the global supply of the raw material.

"Escalating and volatile pricing for titanium dioxide has been an important issue for PPG," Kahle said. "PPG possesses intellectual property and expertise in the production and finishing of titanium dioxide pigment, and we intend to leverage this and engage with potential partners to develop innovative supply solutions."

According to Kahle, PPG previously manufactured chloride titanium dioxide at its Natrium, W.Va., chemicals plant. He said that PPG anticipates the initiative may include technical collaborations, joint ventures, licensing, technical assistance opportunities or other strategic commercial initiatives.

Titanium dioxide is a raw material widely used in the paint and coatings industry as pigment for its hiding, durability and whiteness characteristics.

PPG: BRINGING INNOVATION TO THE SURFACE

PPG Industries' vision is to continue to be the world's leading coatings and specialty products company. Through leadership in innovation, sustainability and color, PPG helps customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction markets and aftermarkets to enhance more surfaces in more ways than does any other company. Founded in 1883, PPG has global headquarters in Pittsburgh and operates in more than 60 countries around the world. Sales in 2010 were $13.4 billion. PPG shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol:PPG).