Element Materials Technology Acquires MERL Ltd

Element Materials Technology today announces the acquisition of Materials
Engineering Research Laboratory Limited (MERL) headquartered in Hitchin,
Hertfordshire, UK. The addition of MERL and its world-class reputation for the
evaluation, analysis and testing of polymeric materials, components and
structures is further evidence of Elements resolve to providing industry-leading
service for the growing implementation of non-metallics.

"I'm very pleased to announce this addition emphasizing our continued
commitment to reinforce our service offering of quality-critical polymer and
composite testing in multiple industries," said Charles Noall, President and CEO
of Element.

Founded in 1986 MERL has developed into an independent company with
thousands of international clients throughout the Oil & Gas, Aerospace, and
Land Transportation sectors. Their range of projects include ensuring the safe
and reliable use of materials in offshore Oil & Gas exploration, new polymer
material for heart valves, and composite materials in aircraft structures.

"We are delighted to join Element," said Dr. Rod Martin, CEO of MERL Ltd. "Not
only will this allow us to give our existing clients a much wider technology
offering, it also presents MERL staff with greater opportunities to broaden their
skills working closely with Element laboratories throughout the U.S. and
Europe."

MERL’s four-laboratory campus is fully-equipped and staffed by 35 employees
with expertise covering the safe and reliable use of elastomers, composites,
adhesives and thermoplastics. Nearly half of their staff hold a PhD or decades of
R&D experience.

"Bringing MERL’s expertise into the Element fold will further expand our
capabilities and capacity for servicing a growing demand for non-metallics,
both in established and emerging sectors," said Noall.

Element is a global network of laboratories with experts specializing in
materials testing, product qualification testing and failure analysis for the
Aerospace & Defense, Oil & Gas, Power Generation, and Transportation sectors.
Their team of 1000 scientists, engineers and technicians work in laboratories
located throughout the U.S. and Europe. For complete Accreditations &
Approvals and more information, please visit www.Element.com.