Photo by: Ana Clara Fonseca (FCF/USP)

Itatiba, São Paulo (June 2020) – Momentive Performance Materials Industria de Silicones Ltda,  a Brazilian subsidiary of Momentive Performance Materials Inc. (“Momentive”), recently donated 50 kilos of Silsoft* EAU microgel from its Itatiba facility to the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of São Paulo (“USP” or, the “University”). The University is using the microgel in the production of more than 1 metric ton of 70% alcohol hand sanitizing gel that will be contributed to the fight against COVID-19.

The hand sanitizer will be made available to front-line workers and patients at the University Hospital of USP, and to the Superintendency of Social Assistance that is responsible for student housing at the University.

With the rapidly increased demand for hand sanitizer around the world, there is currently a shortage of some raw materials used in its composition, most notably, carbomer polymers that are added to thicken sanitizer formulations. "As carbomer polymers are more difficult to come by, we’re seeing Silsoft EAU microgel specified as a viable alternative that is able to provide sensorial benefits beyond thickening," explains Karla Macian, Momentive's Marketing Manager for the Personal Care Segment in Latin America.

Silsoft EAU microgel, based on carbomer that is reacted with silicone, acts as a thickener as well as an emulsifier, and can help create a hand sanitizing gel that is silky soft without the tackiness often associated with the carbomer material.

"We feel a deep responsibility to do our part by supplying what we can to those who need it most in the communities in which we live and work,” stated Macian. “It is our hope that through this initiative, we are able to provide some relief in the face of this pandemic."

About the Company

Momentive Performance Materials Inc. is a global leader in silicones and advanced materials, with a 75-year heritage of being first to market with performance applications for major industries that support and improve everyday life. The Company delivers science-based solutions by linking custom technology platforms to opportunities for customers. Momentive Performance Materials Inc. is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of MOM Holding Company. Additional information about Momentive and its products is available at www.momentive.com.

*Silsoft is a trademark of Momentive Performance Materials Inc.

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