Albemarle to Increase Prices of FCC Catalysts for VGO and Resid Cracking

Albemarle Corporation, a leading global supplier of petroleum refining catalysts and additives, will increase the prices of its fluidized catalytic cracking (FCC) catalysts for both heavy feed (Resid) and vacuum gas oil (VGO) cracking applications by 20 percent worldwide, effective September 1, 2008, or as contracts allow. Natural gas and rare earth surcharges will continue to apply.

Albemarle is a leading, global developer and supplier of hydroprocessing catalysts, FCC catalysts for Resid and VGO cracking, environmental and performance additives, and alternative fuel technologies for refineries worldwide. Many of Albemarle’s clean energy solutions help operations that convert heavier, more challenging petroleum feedstocks into higher value products that meet strict global fuel quality and environmental standards.

Albemarle Corporation, headquartered in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a leading global developer, manufacturer and marketer of highly engineered specialty chemicals for consumer electronics; petroleum and petrochemical processing; transportation and industrial products; pharmaceuticals; agricultural products; and construction and packaging materials. The Company operates in three business segments — Polymer Additives, Catalysts and Fine Chemicals — and serves customers in approximately 100 countries. Learn more about Albemarle at http://www.albemarle.com.