Dow Izolan (Vladimir / Russia; www.dowizolan.com), the joint venture between Dow Chemical (Midland, Michigan / USA; www.dow.com) and Izolan (Vladimir; www.izolan.ru), has begun construction of a new polyurethane systems manufacturing facility in Vladimir / Russia. Scheduled for start-up in mid-2009, the plant will help the jv to enhance its offering to Russian customers in the fast-growing automotive, consumer, footwear, furniture, appliance and construction markets.

The facility will produce a wide range of polyurethane systems including rigid foam used in construction panels and insulation and flexible foam systems used for arm rests, head rests and seating in automotive applications. Established in August 2006, Dow Izolan is based in Vladimir, 170 km north east of Moscow, and has over 100 employees.