Dow Corning's (Midland, Mich.) new Z-6172 Silane, a vinyl-tris-(2-methoxyethoxy) silane coupling agent, is said to improve dispersion of mineral fillers in thermoplastic resins and EPDM rubbers. It reportedly increases initial wet strengths of glass-filled polyester and other resin systems and is said to optimize electrical and physical properties of mineral-filled elastomers and plastics. The product is less volatile than other vinyl silanes for easier handling when compounding in a twin-screw extruder, says the company. Applications include treating aluminum trihyrdrate (ATH), magnesium dihydrate (MDH) and clays used in wire and cable. dowchemical.gocomp.biz/8