"Knauf/USG Systems offers architects, contractors and distributors access to a brand new and unique cement board technology which conforms to European building legislation. We are offering the building industry new construction possibilities as well as technical and logistical benefits," said Karl-Heinz Scholz, Managing Director of the new joint venture. "Our AQUAPANEL® cement board provides an alternative to traditional bricks and blocks construction - particularly for wet areas in interior applications such as kitchens and washrooms. It is also ideal for exterior applications such as facades. Systems are fast and easy to install and require no additional skills from contractors. In addition, we will offer systems for flooring applications."

Knauf/USG Systems is based in Iserlohn, Germany, where the new AQUAPANEL cement board technology is being developed in new production facilities on the site of a previous Deutsche Perlite manufacturing plant. The company will provide a full range of supporting products and systems for cement board applications.

USG Corporation is a Fortune 500 company with subsidiaries that are market leaders in their key product groups: gypsum wallboard, joint compound and related gypsum products; cement board; gypsum fiber panels; ceiling tile and grid; and building products distribution. Headquartered in Chicago, USG's subsidiary, United States Gypsum Company, has 35 years experience in the cement board business with its flagship brand DUROCK® cement board, sold in the U.S. For additional information, visit the USG Web site.

Knauf, with headquarters in Iphofen, Germany, is a leading manufacturer of building materials worldwide, including plasterboards, plasters, insulation materials and external renders. The Knauf name is the pre-eminent name in gypsum in many countries. Innovative concepts and an open-minded attitude towards new technological developments are the cornerstones of the company's strategy. For additional information, visit the Knauf site.

Deutsche Perlite, based in Dortmund, Germany, develops building and insulation systems based on the natural stone perlite and is the market leader in this sector in Germany. In recent years the company has become a system supplier and specialist in floor construction supplying top quality dry floor screed solutions. For more information, visit www.perlite.de.