President Bush Visits 3M; Recognizes Company for Leadership in Research and Development

From microreplication and optical films, to composite conductorsfor transmission grids, and fuel cell components for clean power, thepresident saw firsthand how 3M's nanotechnology-based products areaddressing issues for 3M customers and for the nation.

"We're honored by President Bush's visit today and the opportunityto share some exciting examples of cutting edge technology developedby our talented researchers," said George W. Buckley, chairman,president and CEO.

The following background information describes the technologiesdemonstrated to the president during his laboratory tour:

Microreplication and Optical Films

Microreplication has a long history in 3M, beginning in the 1960swhen it was used to make overhead projectors for meetings andclassrooms. In the 1980s it was extended to make highway signs morevisible at night. The technology was further advanced in the late1990s using nanotechnology to create optical films for liquid crystaldisplays (LCD). In products ranging from cell phones to LCDtelevisions, displays using 3M's Vikuiti brand optical films aresignificantly brighter than those without optical films. Futureapplications include solar control for buildings.

Many 3M films contain patterns, designed to turn or reflect light,that are created on a one-of-a-kind diamond turning machine. On thismachine, 3M measures to one nanometer resolution, and achievesphysical features so small that 700 of them will fit on a human hair.For perspective, one human hair equals 70,000 nanometers, andnanotechnology is in dimensions 100 times smaller than the human hair.The patterns are later embossed on plastic and produced by the mile onmachines much like newspaper presses, but far more precise.

Composite Conductors

Bottlenecks exist in our nation's overhead transmission grid.These bottlenecks limit the flow of power from where it is generatedto where it is needed, which can result in blackouts such as in August2003. For over 70 years the conventional solution has been to build anew transmission line. The problem is that it's difficult to obtainnew land and permitting can take years.

3M has developed a technical solution - a new high performancecomposite conductor that carries twice the power and can be used onthe existing towers. Key to the technology is a 3M material used inthe core of the cable, which replaces the steel used in conventionalcables. It is strong, lightweight and sags less. The high performanceis a result of 3M's ability to control the nano-crystalline structureof the ceramic fibers.

Fuel Cell Components

Fuel cell systems provide critical power for extended periods,using pure hydrogen and oxygen from air to make electricity and water.3M makes the heart of these fuel cells, the critical part thatactually turns the hydrogen and oxygen into electricity, calledmembrane electrode assemblies. 3M membrane electrode assemblies enablea cleaner and more efficient power source for dependable, clean powerin critical telecommunication, aviation, and security applications.

Today, 3M is the world-leading volume manufacturer of membraneelectrode assemblies, and the only manufacturer in the world to havededicated pilot production lines for roll-good component materials androbotically controlled assembly lines. The current generation ofmembrane electrode assemblies incorporates unique 3M core technologyin microreplication and roll-to-roll processing.

For nearly 10 years 3M has worked closely with the Department ofEnergy to develop the next generation membrane electrode assemblytechnology for improvements in cost, performance and durability forfuture use in automobiles.

About 3M - A Global, Diversified Technology Company

Every day, 3M people find new ways to make amazing things happen.Wherever they are, whatever they do, the company's customers know theycan rely on 3M to help make their lives better. 3M's brands includeScotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete,Command and Vikuiti. Serving customers in more than 200 countriesaround the world, the company's 69,000 people use their expertise,technologies and global strength to lead in major markets includingconsumer and office; display and graphics; electronics andtelecommunications; safety, security and protection services; healthcare; industrial and transportation. For more information, includingthe latest product and technology news, visit www.3M.com.

Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete,Command and Vikuiti are trademarks of 3M.