Developed through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA)between the Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) of the US ArmyCorp of Engineers and Engineered Protective Systems of Berry PlasticsCorporation, this new stretch-and-catch system uses the technology ofelastomeric material to retrofit walls and greatly enhance the ability tomitigate secondary debris hazards associated with blast loads.

"We are excited to be able to introduce a truly unique and unparalleledproduct that is going to save lives, reduce injury and offer another level ofprotection to soldiers, military personnel, or anyone working in a structurethat is located in a battle zone or high-risk arena," said Elizabeth A.Curran, Business Development Manager, Berry Plastics Corporation. "In areaswhere threat risk is high, X-Flex helps provide a measure of safety that waspreviously unavailable."

Rigorous full scale testing of X-Flex has resulted in proven performanceto specific threat levels (Level and supporting data are available uponrequest). The fiber-reinforced polymer composite is engineered for adhesion toCMU, brick and other surfaces, and performs well across a wide temperaturerange and diverse environmental conditions. X-Flex is moisture, mold andfungus-resistant, and the environmentally friendly product contains no VOCs.Furthermore, it is easy to transport and store, and is equally efficient toinstall.

"These are factors that are critical to our military personnel," Ms.Curran said. "Unlike traditional methods for increased protection, whichrequired specialized equipment, toxic materials, difficult transport andlengthy implementation through trained labor, X-Flex can be installedinstantly -- and performs as soon as it is installed. Two individuals canretrofit a 10-by-10-foot wall in a matter of minutes."

An exceptionally formulated adhesive system allows the patent pendingX-Flex to be applied to the primed interior side of an exterior wall simply byremoving the protective film liner and sticking the product to the wall.X-Flex is further supported by a simple fastener at the top and bottom of thewall at the floor and ceiling interface.

"In areas where the prospect for blast occurrences is a constant threat,the performance of this product is literally the difference between life anddeath," Ms. Curran said. "The X-Flex Blast Protection System is engineered forreal world threats."

For additional information, contact Elizabeth A. Curran, BusinessDevelopment Manager, Berry Plastics Tapes and Coatings, 800.248.7659 x1672 oremail elizabethcurran@berryplastics.com.

About Berry Plastics

Berry Plastics is a leading manufacturer and marketer of plastic packagingproducts. Berry Plastics is a major producer of a wide range of products,including open top and closed top packaging, polyethylene-based plastic films,industrial tapes, medical specialties, heat-shrinkable coatings and specialtylaminates. The company's 17,000 plus customers range from large multinationalcorporations to small local business. Based in Evansville, Indiana, thecompany has 68 manufacturing facilities worldwide and nearly 14,000 employees.For more information, please visit http://www.berryplastics.com.

SOURCE Berry Plastics