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Green Technology Forum Releases

September 21, 2007

The convergence of nanotechnology and green building is creating fresh economic opportunities and environmental benefits. Indianapolis, IN (NSTI/PRWEB ) September 20, 2007 -- "The convergence of nanotechnology and environmentally sensitive 'green building' is here, it's happening now," said Dr. George Elvin, director of Green Technology Forum and author of its latest report, "Nanotechnology for Green Building." "In one case," Elvin noted, "a company is saving $2.6 million in energy costs and reducing their CO2 emissions by 35 million pounds per year thanks to a single nanotech innovation." "However," he cautioned, "the nanotech and building sectors have to get to know each other a lot better in order to realize the dramatic benefits awaiting each of them." The report facilitates the "getting to know you" mission and highlights successful examples with over 250 hyperlinked references to case studies, university research projects, patents, and technologies available for license. "This is a state-of-the-art survey and a forecast," Elvin said. "Its benefit to the nanotech community is that it explores and explains the enormous economic opportunities in green building design, construction and operation." While alerting that community to new opportunities, the report also demonstrates to architects, building owners, contractors, engineers and others in the $1 trillion per year global building industry that nanotech is at this moment beginning to fulfill it's promise of healthful benefits for people and the environment. "The demand for green building is at an all-time high," Dr. Elvin noted, "and those in the industry and in ownership positions adopting nanotechnology now are likely to emerge as leaders and be rewarded accordingly." Those who do not lead may well be led by the demand for more stringent conservation measures, Elvin advised. Cities like Chicago and Seattle have already adopted stringent green building requirements for new construction, and developers must find new ways to meet them. "Nanomaterials offer a whole new frontier for green builders, and this report shows them how," Elvin said. In addition to results of extensive research, the report presents exclusive insights into trends, drivers and barriers in the field via interviews with leaders in the nanotech arena. Elvin, whose books include cutting-edge studies published by Wiley and Princeton Architectural Press, predicted that nanotech's many environmental performance benefits "will be led by current improvements in solar insulation and coatings, followed by advances in water and air filtration, solar technology and, more distant, in lighting and structural components." As an example he pointed to available improvements in nanocoatings for insulating, self-cleaning, UV protection, corrosion resistance and waterproofing. Some available coatings are considered "healers," in that they remove and render benign pollutants from a building's surrounding atmosphere. While considering the obstacles to widespread adoption of nanotech in the building industry, the report presents news of the many nano-enhanced products currently on the market that have been demonstrated to outperform conventional products. "Product costs continue to fall," Elvin observed, "making nanotech's promise of reduced waste and toxicity, lower energy and raw material consumption, greater safety and security, cleaner and healthier buildings and other human health and environmental benefits far more accessible." The resource-packed report identifies over 130 startups and established companies offering or developing nanomaterials for green building, more than 50 projects underway at universities and research centers, and 40-plus patents available for licensing. More than 250 citations and links to these resources are provided. Ordering information for the 116-page "Nanotechnology for Green Building" report is available now at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.greentechforum.net/greenbuild Dr. George Elvin, director of Green Technology Forum and author of this study, is a frequent speaker, author and advisor on emerging technologies. Published by Wiley and Princeton Architectural Press, Dr. Elvin is an Associate Professor at Ball State University, and a former Visiting Research Fellow at Edinburgh University's Institute for Advanced Study in the Humanities and Fellow at the Center for Energy Research, Education and Service. Green Technology Forum is a research and advising firm focused on nanotechnology and biotechnology for growing green businesses. From green building to solar energy and water filtration, we provide the experience and expertise that help businesspeople decide where they want green technology to take them. We help develop market studies, strategies, products and services that benefit our clients, their customers, and the environment.
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Whirlpool Corporation Launches Green Appliance Collection at Google 3D Warehouse Web Site

September 20, 2007

3-D Models of Energy Star Qualified Appliances Makes it Easier for Professionals and Homeowners to Visualize Green Products BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (September 19, 2007) – Whirlpool Corporation is raising the bar for energy efficiency and sustainable design with its latest 3-D appliance model offerings in the Google(R) 3D Warehouse Web site. ENERGY STAR(R) qualified and additional water- and energy-efficient appliances from Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air and Gladiator brands are now available as 3-D models in the “Green Appliance Collection” in the Google(R) 3D Warehouse. “Whirlpool Corporation’s goal is to provide builders, architects and designers with as many green options as possible,” said Mark Johnson, FAIA, CKD architect and senior manager of architecture and design marketing at Whirlpool Corporation. “We currently offer more than 600 ENERGY STAR(R) qualified appliances within our Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air and Gladiator brands alone.” Google SketchUp is a powerful, yet easy-to-learn, software developed to provide quick and easy 3-D forms for conceptual stages of design. The Google 3D Warehouse is a repository of 3-D building objects that expedites the design process. Whirlpool Corporation’s appliance models offer designers and their clients the ability to visualize their designs in 3-D, making it easier to determine the configurations that will work best. The SketchUp models can then be converted into all major CAD products without having to draw designs twice. Downloading 3-D appliance models from the Green Appliance Collection makes it easier to visualize products design professionals and clients choose than trying to interpret a floor plan. When using Google SketchUp, the kitchen design can even be experienced as a “virtual walk through.” Free and professional versions of Google Sketchup 3D design software are available at sketchup.com. Additionally, Whirlpool Corporation is working with a company of SketchUp experts named School. School teaches the fundamentals of SketchUp through an interactive DVD, and uses forums and a weekly podcast called "The SketchUp Show" to create an ongoing conversation with tips and tricks for using the software. Whirlpool Corporation sponsored five episodes of video podcast, titled “The SketchUp Show: Whirlpool Corporation Series.” Through the partnership with School, this series is the first podcast series to qualify for continuing education requirements. The series offers tips for designing kitchens, laundry centers, outdoor kitchens and modular workshop/storage systems for the garage in Google SketchUp. “The SketchUp Show: Whirlpool Corporation Series” is available at AECdaily.com, as episodes 20-24 of the “The SketchUp Show” via Apple iTunes and at School’s Web site, go-2-school.com. In addition to the Green Appliance Collection, the Google 3D Warehouse offers a full line of Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air and Gladitor brand products. To view the Green Appliance Collection 3-D models, please visit sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse. Understanding consumers’ growing commitment to the environment, Whirlpool Corporation manufactures more ENERGY STAR(R) qualified home appliances than any other appliance manufacturer. The company’s dedication to energy efficiency has earned it the ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence 2007 Award from the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This special award is given to a select group of organizations that have exhibited outstanding environmental leadership year after year, while sustaining product and marketing excellence. Beginning with this award’s inaugural year in 2006, Whirlpool Corporation has won this unique honor twice, making it the eighth time the company has been honored with an ENERGY STAR Award win. Whirlpool Corporation is the world’s leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of approximately $18 billion, more than 73,000 employees, and more than 70 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world. The company markets Jenn-Air, KitchenAid, Maytag, Whirlpool, Amana, Gladiator, Brastemp, Bauknecht and other major brand names to consumers in nearly every country around the world. For more information on Whirlpool Corporation and its offerings for architects and design professionals, please visit www.insideadvantage.com or call 1-800-253-3977.
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Protect the Environment, and Your Worker’s Environment, With OTC- and VOC-Compliant Products From W. R. MEADOWS.

September 19, 2007

Hampshire, IL – CS-309-OTC and CS-309-25 OTC are non-yellowing, acrylic curing and sealing compounds, specifically formulated for areas of the country requiring the use of very low VOC-content products. The products are comprised of proprietary acrylic polymers and VOC-exempt solvents. These products are designed to preserve and protect the environment, as the formulations meet the U.S. EPA Architectural Coatings Rule requirements and are OTC-compliant (Ozone Transport Commission). This VOC and OTC compliancy assures a safe work experience. CS-309-OTC and CS-309-25 OTC have a significantly higher flash point than comparable products on the market. The products are fast drying, user-friendly and require only a single application. However, multiple applications result in a higher sheen on the surface, if desired. CS-309-OTC and CS-309-25 OTC can be used on driveways, patios, industrial floors, loading docks, swimming pool areas and exposed aggregate, as well as any exterior decorative surface where enhanced appearance, protection and sealing of concrete is desired. The products offer improved resistance to rain, sun, freezing temperatures, stains, most acids and industrial chemicals, oil, grease, de-icing salts, cleaning agents (except aromatic solvents) and caustics, as well as airborne soot, dust and other pollutants. For more information, call (847) 214-2100, e-mail wrmil@wrmeadows.com or visit www.wrmeadows.com.
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W. R. MEADOWS, INC. Offers Free KNIGHT SCHOOL Courses at AEC DAILY’s Online Learning Center.

September 17, 2007

Hampshire, IL – W. R. MEADOWS has teamed up with AEC DAILY to offer AIA/CSI free approved training at AEC DAILY’s Online Education Center. The KNIGHT SCHOOL courses provide instruction on Controlling Moisture Movement In Buildings with a focus on The Complete Air & Vapor Barrier Approach and Below Slab Protection. W. R. MEADOWS delivers one of the broadest lines of premium-grade construction products available to architects, engineers, contractors, and building owners to meet a multitude of construction application needs. Their extensive line of high performance, premium-grade construction products has been developed for use in, on, around, and under concrete. AEC DAILY offers free online Continuing Education Courses. AEC DAILY Continuing Education Courses are approved by AIA, CSI and many more organizations. Log on and take the course or download as a podcast. Courses are always being added, so visit www.aecdaily.com/sponsor/wrmeadows to view all available KNIGHT SCHOOL courses.
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Prevent Moisture Intrusion with AIR-SHIELD™ THRU-WALL FLASHING

September 10, 2007

Hampshire, IL – AIR-SHIELD THRU-WALL FLASHING from W. R. MEADOWS is a self-adhering, flexible membrane flashing. It is a roll-type product that is nominally 40 mils thick. AIR-SHIELD THRU-WALL FLASHING is a concealed flashing for masonry concrete, wood/steel frames and roofing applications – door and window lintels, sills, spandrel beams, caps and parapets. AIR-SHIELD THRU-WALL FLASHING is designed for use as a thru-wall flashing and dampproofing course. Its controlled thickness membrane is ideal for flashing membrane applications, and its cross-laminated polyethylene film has excellent tensile strength, elongation and tear-resistance. This modified, rugged membrane is flexible at low temperatures and can actually fold to shape during application as a thru-wall flashing. AIR-SHIELD THRU-WALL FLASHING has excellent adhesion to prepared substrates of pre-cast concrete, cast in place concrete, masonry (concrete block), interior and exterior gypsum board, Styrofoam, primed steel, aluminum mill finish, anodized aluminum, primed galvanized metal, drywall and plywood. Its self-healing characteristics facilitate recovery if minimal damage is sustained under normal use applications. AIR-SHIELD THRU-WALL FLASHING is packaged in 75’ rolls, with multiple width sizes. For more information, call (847) 214-2100, e-mail wrmil@wrmeadows.com or visit www.wrmeadows.com.
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Visually Enhance Your Poolscape with Signature Series Redwood

September 10, 2007

Hampshire, IL – Signature Series Redwood from DECK-O-SEAL® is a new, exciting option for your poolscape. Not only does Signature Series Redwood offer you a means to visually enhance your project with a fresh wood look, but the product also offers you a new level of quality. Signature Series Redwood offers a real wood look, exceptional durability in outdoor environments, greater UV stability, enhanced color stability and superior chemical resistance. Signature Series Redwood will last three to four times longer than any wood or PVC product that is currently available in the marketplace. Signature Series Redwood products will retain their color and mechanical properties under long exposure to UV, moisture and heat. Products available in the Signature Series Redwood line are drains, joints, drain replacement tops and RENU-STRIP® expansion joint caps. For more information, contact DECK-O-SEAL, a division of W. R. MEADOWS, INC. at P.O. Box 397, Hampshire, Illinois 60140; phone: (800) 542-POOL; fax: (847) 214-2268; e-mail: sales@deckoseal.com or visit www.deckoseal.com.
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Matthew Price Named President of W. R. MEADOWS, INC.

September 06, 2007

Hampshire, IL – On August 27th, 2007, Matthew Price was named President of W. R. MEADOWS, INC. Matt previously held the position of Executive Vice President. Matt began his full-time career with MEADOWS in 1994 at the Goodyear, Arizona branch office, working in inside sales. During his stay in Arizona, he earned his MBA from the Keller Graduate School of Management. In 1996, Matt moved to the Texas branch, continuing his inside sales role. In June 2002, he moved to the corporate headquarters in Hampshire, Illinois. Here, Matt worked in an administrative capacity, while learning day-to-day operations and functions from upper management. During this time, Matt earned his certificate in Human Resource Management, also from the Keller Graduate School of Management. In January 2003, he was named Vice President of Customer Relations, and in April 2005, Executive Vice President. W. R. MEADOWS, INC. manufactures a broad line of premium-grade construction products, used in several facets of the construction industry. MEADOWS products have been used in construction projects worldwide. MEADOWS is a family-owned company, celebrating over 80 years of quality, integrity and service. The company currently has nine branch locations located throughout the U.S. and Canada. For more information, call (847) 214-2100, e-mail wrmil@wrmeadows.com or visit www.wrmeadows.com.
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Custom Builders USA Selects Whirlpool Corporation as National Partner in Quality, Appliance Category

September 05, 2007

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (September 5, 2007) – Custom Builders USA (CBUSA) has selected Whirlpool Corporation as its National Partner in Quality (NPIQ) in the appliance category. CB-USA is a management company that develops and maintains powerful, local networks of professional builders, vendors and national manufacturers to achieve higher levels of service and increased productivity. As the NPIQ for appliances, Whirlpool Corporation will help CBUSA homebuilders complement their homebuyers’ individual lifestyles with a portfolio of brands to choose from, including Jenn-Air, KitchenAid, Maytag, Whirlpool and Gladiator. “We are delighted to partner with an industry leader like Whirlpool Corporation,” said Lee Odess, chief operating officer of CBUSA. “As part of CBUSA, these custom homebuilders depend on quality products to build the best homes in their markets, and products from Whirlpool Corporation will help them succeed in this goal.” Founded in 2005, CBUSA is dedicated to the continuous research and improvement of products and services within the building industry and promoting long-term relationships between builders, local suppliers and manufacturers. CBUSA currently has groups in Atlanta; Charleston, South Carolina; Charlotte, Raleigh and Wilmington, North Carolina; Chicago; Cleveland; Denver; Houston; Indianapolis; throughout New Mexico; the Northern Virginia/Washington D.C./Southern Maryland metro market; Orlando, Florida and throughout Utah. Whirlpool Corporation is the world’s leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of approximately $18 billion, more than 73,000 employees, and more than 70 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world. The company markets Jenn-Air, KitchenAid, Maytag, Whirlpool, Amana, Gladiator, Brastemp, Bauknecht, and other major brand names to consumers in nearly every country around the world. For more information on Whirlpool Corporation and its offerings for building and design professionals, please visit www.insideadvantage.com or call 1-800-253-3977.
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