PARMA, Ohio - President George W. Bush visited GrafTech International Ltd.'s Advanced Flexible Graphite facility in support of his alternative energy policy and goal to reduce dependency on foreign oil. GrafTech manufactures GRAFCELL® flow field plates at this facility, a key component in fuel cell power generation.

The president's visit included a tour of the manufacturing facility, escorted by Craig Shular, GrafTech chief executive officer. According to the company, GRAFCELL® flow field plates have been instrumental in the development and commercialization of next-generation fuel cells by improving fuel cell power and performance. GrafTech was recognized in 2006 for its expertise in fuel cell development with a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to work on product development and commercialization in this market.

"It's an honor to host President Bush at our Parma, Ohio site," stated Shular. "Our team is committed to excellence and innovative graphite material science-based solutions. We believe fuel cell technology represents a significant opportunity as an emissions-free energy source."

Publication date: 07/23/2007