21st November 2006

Matheson Tri-Gas Increases Arsine Capacity

In response to increased customer demand, Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc., has added significant capacity and production enhancement to its hydride plant in New Johnsonville, TN, USA. The company is clearly in bullish mood and keen to leverage its assets to secure a bigger market share.

With a two-phase plan, which began in 2005, it has already added over 30% more production capacity for high purity arsine.

The final phase, which is planned for implementation in January 2007, incorporates an additional purification step for arsine production that will enable Matheson Tri-Gas to continue planned critical impurity reduction for the high-performance III-V market.
“With the increased demand for hydrides, such as arsine, in the compound semiconductor market, and the apparent apathy of some of the traditional suppliers to continue to deliver these hydrides, Matheson Tri-Gas is proud to step up and commit capital to a market I personally have been an integral part of for many years,” said Bill Kroll, Chairman and CEO, Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc.

“My connection with the compound semiconductor market and its key players has given me confidence that we want to be a bigger part of the success of compound semiconductors well into the future. We believe our commitment of financial and human capital demonstrates that we “walk the talk,” continued Kroll.

The New Johnsonville facility is the flagship facility for Matheson Tri-Gas, exemplifying the Company’s dedication to the semiconductor market and its strong position for long-term market presence.

Web: www.mathesontrigas.com