MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich. June 21, 2005 -- Henkel introduces Bonderite® NT-1, the world's first nanoceramic conversion coating process for metals. For about a century, iron phosphating with subsequent sealing has been the standard process for metal surface pretreatment, however, Henkel's Bonderite NT-1 is proving to be far superior in terms of quality, ecology and economics.

Free of phosphate and regulated heavy metals, Bonderite NT-1 is ultra-thin and makes production processes significantly more economical. This innovative surface pretreatment, applied prior to painting, is less complicated and more cost effective than conventional iron phosphating.

Outstanding corrosion protection and paint adhesion
Bonderite NT-1 is a suitable surface pretreatment for all conventional powder and wet paint coatings. It can be applied by dipping or spraying and creates a cohesive, inorganic, extremely high-density layer incorporating nanoparticles. Bonderite NT-1 coats steel, aluminum and zinc coated substrates and delivers better corrosion protection and paint adhesion than iron phosphating.

Advantages confirmed in field tests
Henkel's new technology offers numerous economic benefits. Bonderite NT-1 coatings can be applied at room temperature, saving energy and reducing throughput time to 20 seconds. Bonderite NT-1 also makes passivation unnecessary, eliminating an entire process step which reduces costs.

Less sludge, better environmental profile
In addition to its low energy needs, Bonderite NT-1 contains neither phosphates nor toxic heavy metals and far less sludge is generated in production than with iron phosphating. Bonderite NT-1 again lowers cost by reducing wastewater treatment, waste disposal, plant cleaning and maintenance.

Pioneering technology
The patent pending, nanoceramic process, is performing well at over 30 sites. Bonderite NT-1 is just one example of the many innovations enabling Henkel to consolidate and build on its strong position in metal pretreatment. For more information, please visit www.bonderitent1.henkel.us.

The Henkel Group operates in three strategic business areas: Home Care; Personal care; and Adhesives, Sealants and Surface Treatments, which serves the transportation, electronics, aerospace, metal, durable goods, consumer goods, maintenance and repair and packaging industries, and offers a broad range of products for the craftsman and consumer. With brands and advanced technologies, Henkel makes people's lives easier, better, and more beautiful. 50,000 employees work for the Henkel Group worldwide. People in 125 countries around the world trust in brands and technologies from Henkel - "A Brand like a Friend."