Rhodia research chemists will conduct a series of Chemistry Connection® science education programs that bring chemistry to life?especially in the home?for students in Rhodia's North American manufacturing communities. The scientists are visiting schools near the company's research laboratories in Bristol, Pennsylvania and to schools south of Chicago to celebrate National Chemistry Week, Oct. 17-23.

In these community schools, nearly 750 children will discover the magic of chemistry and its everyday applications through Chemistry Connection®, Rhodia's award-winning program offered by volunteer scientists from local Rhodia facilities.

?Encouraging elementary- and middle-school students to explore the sciences is absolutely essential for developing the next generation of laboratory researchers,? according to Dr. John Cherkauskas, director of Rhodia's Center for Research & Technology in Bristol.

?Thousands of everyday products, from soaps and detergents, shampoos and cosmetics to food, pharmaceuticals and fuel additives, are created through innovations that start with a basic understanding of chemistry and the sciences,? Cherkauskas explains.

?Our quality of life depends on these inquisitive and imaginative minds and we want to do all we can to spark and encourage their scientific curiosity.?

More than 250,000 students nationwide have participated in Rhodia's Chemistry Connection® since the program was launched in 1989.

Members of the media are invited to attend.

10/21 - Snyder-Girotti Elementary School - Thursday - 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.

Rhodia is an international chemical company resolutely committed to sustainable development. As a leader in its businesses, the Group aims to improve its customers' performance through the pursuit of operational excellence and its ability to innovate. Structured around eleven Enterprises, Rhodia is the partner of major players in the automotive, electronics, flavors and fragrances, health, personal and home care markets, consumer goods and industrial markets. The Group employs around 13,600 people worldwide and generated sales of €4.03 billion in 2009. Rhodia is listed on Euronext Paris.

National Chemistry Week (NCW) is a community-based annual event that unites American Chemical Society local sections, businesses, schools, and individuals in communicating the importance of chemistry to our quality of life.

Rhodia
David Klucsik, 609-860-3616
david.klucsik@us.rhodia.com
www.rhodia.com