Disposal

Compagnie de Saint-Gobain
31 July 2000


SAINT-GOBAIN TO SELL ITS CERAMIC FIBERS BUSINESS

The Ceramics & Plastics Branch of Saint-Gobain announced the signing of a
definitive agreement under which its ceramics, fibers business - Carborundum
Insulation Technology - will be sold to Unifrax Corp., the leading North
American manufacturer of ceramic fiber products.  The sale is expected to be
closed by the end of the third quarter 2000.

The divestment of Carborundum Insulation Technology, which represents $ 80 M in
sales, is motivated by Saint-Gobain's current strategy of focusing on core
businesses and leadership positions.

Unifrax, whose only business is ceramic fibers, and who shares the same
technology and markets knowledge as Carborundum Insulation Technology, within
two separate geographical areas, was viewed as the best candidate to grow this
business further on a worldwide basis.

Both companies have historical links which, combined with the same approach of
the business, should facilitate a transition in the best interest of their
employees.

Investor Relations Department

Tel:    Florence TRIOU-TEIXEIRA + 33 1 47 62 45 19 - 
        mailto: [e-mail]
Tel:    Lounis BEKKAT           + 33 1 47 62 32 36 -
        mailto: [e-mail]

Fax:    + 33 1 47 62 50 62