Polypore 10-Q 2006 Q2 Quarterly report

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, DC 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

þ Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period endedJuly 1, 2006

o Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the transition period from                    to                    

Commission file number: 333-119224

POLYPORE, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

Delaware	57-1006871
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)	(IRS Employer Identification No.)
13800 South Lakes Drive Charlotte, North Carolina	28273
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)	(Zip Code)

(704) 587-8409

(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
þ Yeso No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

o Large accelerated filer   o Accelerated filer    þ  Non-accelerated filer

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
o Yesþ No

The Company currently has 100 shares of common stock outstanding, all of which are owned indirectly by Polypore International, Inc.

Polypore, Inc.
Index to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
For the Quarter Ended July 1, 2006

	Page
PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.Financial Statements		4
Item 2.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations		20
Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk		30
Item 4.Controls and Procedures		30
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.Legal Proceedings		31
Item 6.Exhibits		31
SIGNATURES

In this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the words “Polypore,” “Company,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Polypore, Inc. together with its subsidiaries unless the context indicates otherwise.

2

Forward-looking Statements

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that address activities, events or developments that we expect, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements, including, in particular, the statements about Polypore’s plans, objectives, strategies and prospects regarding, among other things, the financial condition, results of operations and business of Polypore and its subsidiaries. We have identified some of these forward-looking statements with words like “believe,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “predict,” “anticipate,” “estimate” or “continue” and other words and terms of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements may be contained under captions such as “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” or “Controls and Procedures” or the Company’s financial statements or the notes thereto.

These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations about future events affecting us and are subject to uncertainties and factors relating to our operations and business environment, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control. Many factors mentioned in our discussion in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, including the risks outlined under the caption entitled “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005, will be important in determining future results. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, we do not know whether our expectations will prove correct. They can be affected by inaccurate assumptions we might make or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties, including with respect to Polypore, the following, among other things:

• the highly competitive nature of the markets in which we sell our products;

• the failure to continue to develop innovative products;

• the failure to successfully manage the transition in hemodialysis from cellulosic to synthetic filtration membranes;

• the loss of our customers;

• the vertical integration by our customers of the production of our products into their own manufacturing process;

• increases in prices for raw materials or the loss of key supplier contracts;

• employee slowdowns, strikes or similar actions;

• product liability claims exposure;

• risks in connection with our operations outside the United States;

• the incurrence of substantial costs to comply with, or as a result of violations of, or liabilities under, environmental laws;

• the failure to protect our intellectual property;

• the failure to replace lost senior management;

• the incurrence of additional debt, contingent liabilities and expenses in connection with future acquisitions;

• the failure to effectively integrate newly acquired operations; and

• the absence of expected returns from the amount of intangible assets we have recorded.

Because our actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements, we cannot give any assurance that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur or, if any of them do, what impact they will have on Polypore’s results of operations and financial condition. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. We do not undertake any obligation to update these forward-looking statement to reflect new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under federal securities laws.

3

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

Polypore, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

	July 1, 2006			December 31, 2005*
(in thousands)	(unaudited)
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and equivalents	$	39,767		$	27,580
Accounts receivable, net		103,197			88,347
Inventories		67,144			60,539
Prepaid and other		9,634			8,937
Total current assets		219,742			185,403
Property, plant and equipment, net		380,867			370,871
Goodwill		567,587			567,587
Intangibles and loan acquisition costs, net		213,562			222,006
Environmental indemnification receivable		17,720			16,366
Other		1,166			1,105
Total assets	$	1,400,644		$	1,363,338
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Current liabilities:
Revolving credit obligations	$	—		$	—
Accounts payable		26,555			23,209
Accrued liabilities		39,307			31,873
Income taxes payable		5,107			4,255
Current portion of debt		3,048			1,224
Current portion of capital lease obligation		1,349			1,326
Total current liabilities		75,366			61,887
Debt, less current portion		782,739			767,759
Capital lease obligation, less current portion		5,449			6,018
Pension and postretirement benefits		55,765			51,386
Postemployment benefits		4,701			7,096
Environmental reserve, less current portion		23,416			22,264
Deferred income taxes		130,244			133,785
Other		1,114			1,864
Commitments and contingencies		—			—
Shareholders’ equity:
Common stock		—			—
Paid-in capital		321,516			321,516
Retained earnings (deficit)		6,508			(850	)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(6,174	)		(9,387	)
		321,850			311,279
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	1,400,644		$	1,363,338

* Derived from audited consolidated financial statements

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements

4

Polypore, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended						Six Months Ended
(in thousands)	July 1, 2006			July 2, 2005			July 1, 2006			July 2, 2005
Net sales	$	123,094		$	112,614		$	238,387		$	225,112
Cost of goods sold		78,461			72,105			153,441			145,714
Gross profit		44,633			40,509			84,946			79,398
Selling, general and administrative expenses		21,940			18,202			44,438			36,592
Business restructuring		553			5,402			1,325			5,402
Operating income		22,140			16,905			39,183			37,404
Other (income) expense:
Interest expense, net		17,503			14,817			33,786			29,747
Change in accounting principle related to postemployment benefits		—			—			(2,593	)		—
Foreign currency and other		1,282			(1,834	)		1,981			(3,405	)
		18,785			12,983			33,174			26,342
Income before income taxes		3,355			3,922			6,009			11,062
Income taxes		(638	)		613			(1,349	)		2,300
Net income	$	3,993		$	3,309		$	7,358		$	8,762

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements

5

Polypore, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)

				��
	Six Months Ended
(in thousands)	July 1, 2006				July 2, 2005
Operating activities:
Net income	$	7,358			$	8,762
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation expense		20,319				19,459
Amortization expense		8,823				8,903
Amortization of loan acquisition costs		1,450				1,319
Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment		772				(18	)
Foreign currency and other		87				(3,515	)
Deferred income taxes		(6,466	)			(1,537	)
Business restructuring		1,325				5,402
Change in accounting principle related to postemployment benefits		(2,593	)			—
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable		(10,904	)			9,557
Inventories		(3,319	)			(2,651	)
Prepaid and other current assets		(20	)			(2,284	)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		6,339				(11,713	)
Income taxes payable		(1,245	)			3,787
Other, net		626				1,254
Net cash provided by operating activities		22,552				36,725
Investing activities:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment		(11,128	)			(6,617	)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment		—				24
Net cash used in investing activities		(11,128	)			(6,593	)
Financing activities:
Principal payments on debt		(698	)			(27,393	)
Loan acquisition costs		—				(415	)
Net cash used in financing activities		(698	)			( 27,808	)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents		1,461				(2,845	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents		12,187				(521	)
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period		27,580				31,684
Cash and equivalents at end of the period	$	39,767			$	31,163

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements

6

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

1. Description of Business and Basis of Presentation

Description of Business– Polypore, Inc. (the “Company” or “Polypore”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Polypore International, Inc. (“Parent” or “Polypore International”), is a leading worldwide manufacturer and marketer of microporous membranes for use in energy storage and separations applications. The Company has a global presence in the major geographic markets of North America, South America, Western Europe and Asia.

On May 13, 2004, the Company was acquired by Polypore International, Inc. Polypore International, Inc. is owned, directly and indirectly, by Warburg Pincus Private Equity VIII, L.P. and Warburg Pincus International Partners, L.P. The aggregate purchase price, including acquisition related costs, was approximately $1,150,073,000 in cash. In connection with the acquisition, the Company obtained a new credit facility, issued 8.75% senior subordinated notes and received equity contributions from its shareholders. The proceeds from these transactions were used to pay the net purchase price to the existing shareholders, repay all outstanding indebtedness under the Company’s then-existing credit facility and pay transaction related fees and expenses.

Basis of Presentation– The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company are prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information. Accordingly, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes do not contain certain information included in the Company’s annual financial statements. In the opinion of management, all normal and recurring adjustments that are necessary for a fair presentation have been made. Operating results for the period ended July 1, 2006 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending December 30, 2006. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the annual audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005.

2. Accounting Pronouncements

On January 1, 2006, the Company adopted FASB Statement No. 154,Accounting Changes and Error Corrections(“FAS 154”). This standard establishes new standards on accounting for all voluntary changes in accounting principle and changes required by an accounting pronouncement in the unusual instance that the pronouncement does not include specific transition provisions. Pursuant to the new rules, all such changes must be accounted for by retrospective application to the financial statements of prior periods unless it is impracticable to do so. FAS 154 completely replaces APB Opinion No. 20 and FAS 3, though it carries forward the guidance in those pronouncements with respect to accounting for changes in estimates, changes in the reporting entity and the correction of errors.

On January 1, 2006, the Company adopted EITF Issue No. 05-5,Accounting for Early Retirement or Postemployment Programs with Specific Features (Such As Terms Specified in Altersteilzeit Early Retirement Arrangements)(“EITF 05-5”). The EITF agreed with FASB staff observations that the salary components of Type I and Type II ATZ arrangements (excluding the bonus and additional contributions into the German government pension scheme) should be recognized over the period from the point at which the ATZ period begins until the end of the active service period. Additionally, the portion of the salary that is deferred under a Type II arrangement should be discounted if payment is expected to be deferred for a period longer than one year. In addition, the EITF reached a consensus that the bonus feature and the additional contributions into the German government pension scheme (collectively, the additional compensation) under a Type II ATZ arrangement should be accounted for as a postemployment benefit under Statement 112. An entity should recognize the additional compensation over the period from the point at which the employee signs the ATZ contract until the end of the active service period. The EITF also concluded that the employer should recognize the government subsidy when it meets the necessary criteria and is entitled to the subsidy. As a result of adopting this consensus, which was treated as a change in accounting estimate effected by a change in accounting principle as described in paragraph 19 of FAS 154, the Company is required to recognize the bonus feature of its ATZ arrangements over the remaining active service period of the employees that have signed ATZ contracts. The Company had previously accrued for the bonus feature of its ATZ arrangements through purchase accounting in connection with an acquisition in 2002. As a result of the adoption of EITF 05-5, the Company reduced the accrual for postemployment benefits and recognized $2,593,000 in other income in the three months ended April 1, 2006. This reduction in the postemployment benefits accrual increased net income by $1,634,000, net of $959,000 in income tax expense. The impact of adopting EITF 05-5 is expected to result in additional compensation expense of approximately $1,200,000 in 2006, of which $335,000 and $695,000 was recognized in the three and six months ended July 1, 2006, respectively. The impact of this additional compensation expense reduced net income by $211,000, net of income taxes of $124,000, during the

7

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

three months ended July 1, 2006 and reduced net income by $438,000, net of income taxes of $257,000, during the six months ended July 1, 2006.

On January 1, 2006, the Company adopted FASB Statement No. 151,Inventory Costs(“FAS 151”). This statement amends Accounting Research Bulletin No. 43, Chapter 4,Inventory Pricing, to clarify the accounting for abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs and wasted material (spoilage). FAS 151 requires that idle facility expense, excess spoilage, double freight and re-handling costs be recognized as current-period charges regardless of whether they meet the criterion of “so abnormal”. FAS 151 also requires that allocation of fixed production overhead expenses to the costs of conversion be based on the normal capacity of the production facilities. The adoption of FAS 151 did not have an impact on the Company’s financial statements.

In June 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48,Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an Interpretation of FASB Statement 109(“FIN 48”), which clarifies the accounting for uncertain tax positions. This Interpretation allows the tax effects from an uncertain tax position to be recognized in the Company’s financial statements if the position is more likely than not to be sustained upon audit, based on the technical merits of the position. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting FIN 48 on its consolidated financial statements.

3. Inventories

Inventories are carried at the lower of cost or market using the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method of accounting. Inventories consist of the following:

(in thousands)	July 1, 2006		December 31, 2005
Raw materials	$	21,770	$	21,485
Work-in-process		9,257		7,171
Finished goods		36,117		31,883
Total	$	67,144	$	60,539

4. Debt

Debt, in order of priority, consists of:

(in thousands)	July 1, 2006		December 31, 2005
Senior credit facilities:
Revolving credit facility	$	—	$	—
Term loan facilities		368,679		365,735
8.75% senior subordinated notes		415,815		401,955
Other		1,293		1,293
		785,787		768,983
Less current maturities		3,048		1,224
Long-term debt	$	782,739	$	767,759

8

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

5. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

The Company and its subsidiaries sponsor multiple defined benefit pension plans, which are primarily located at subsidiaries outside of the U.S., and an other postretirement benefit plan located in the U.S.

The following tables provide the components of net periodic benefit cost:

	Pension Plans
	Three Months Ended						Six Months Ended
(in thousands)	July 1, 2006			July 2, 2005			July 1, 2006			July 2, 2005
Service cost	$	759		$	652		$	1,478		$	1,230
Interest cost		805			857			1,568			1,616
Expected return on plan assets		(200	)		(245	)		(392	)		(458	)
Recognized net actuarial loss		8			16			17			30
Net periodic benefit cost	$	1,372		$	1,280		$	2,671		$	2,418
	Other Postretirement Benefits
	Three Months Ended						Six Months Ended
(in thousands)	July 1, 2006			July 2, 2005			July 1, 2006			July 2, 2005
Service cost	$	8		$	7		$	16		$	14
Interest cost		28			29			57			58
Recognized net actuarial loss		3			—			4			—
Net periodic benefit cost	$	39		$	36		$	77		$	72

6. Environmental Matters

The Company accrues for environmental obligations when such expenditures are probable and reasonably estimable. The amount of liability recorded is based on currently available information, including the progress of remedial investigations, current status of discussions with regulatory authorities regarding the method and extent of remediation, presently enacted laws and existing technology. Accruals for estimated losses from environmental obligations are adjusted as further information develops or circumstances change. Costs of future expenditures for environmental obligations are not discounted to their present value. Recoveries of environmental costs from other parties are recognized as assets when their receipt is deemed probable. Environmental reserves were $26,817,000 and $25,568,000 as of July 1, 2006 and December 31, 2005, respectively.

The Company received a Finding of Violation dated March 28, 2005 from the EPA alleging a noncompliance with the Title V Air Operating Permit at its Corydon, Indiana facility relating to the control of fugitive emissions at the facility. The Company recorded a reserve in 2005 for its best estimate of potential penalties. During the three months ended April 1, 2006, the Company finalized an agreement with the EPA that was consistent with the Company’s original estimate.

In 2004, the Company recorded a reserve for potential environmental contamination at its manufacturing facility in Potenza, Italy. Environmental studies were performed and a plan for remediation was developed and refined with assistance from a third-party advisor and in consultation with the Italian environmental authorities. The Company anticipates that expenditures will continue to be made over the next seven to ten years.

In 2002, the Company recorded a reserve for environmental obligations at its Membrana facility providing for costs to remediate known environmental issues and operational upgrades which are required in order for the Company to remain in compliance with local regulations. The Company anticipates that expenditures will continue to be made over the next seven to ten years.

9

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

The Company has indemnification agreements for certain environmental matters from Acordis A.G. (“Acordis”) and Akzo Nobel (“Akzo”), the prior owners of Membrana. Akzo originally provided broad environmental protections to Acordis with the right to assign such indemnities to Acordis’s successors. Akzo’s indemnifications relate to conditions existing prior to December 1999, which is the date that Membrana was sold to Acordis. The Akzo agreement provides indemnification of claims through December 2007, with the indemnification percentage decreasing each year during the coverage period. Through December 2003, Akzo pays 75% of any approved claim. After that, Akzo pays 65% of claims reported through December 2006 and 50% of claims reported through December 2007. In addition to the Akzo indemnification, Acordis provides separate indemnification of claims incurred from December 1999 through February 2002, the acquisition date. At July 1, 2006 and December 31, 2005, amounts receivable under the indemnification agreement were $18,729,000 and $17,369,000, respectively. Payments on these indemnification receivables will be due as the Company expends funds for the environmental matters.

7. Business Restructuring

2005 Restructuring Plan

In order to better accommodate customer growth and related demand for both lead-acid and lithium battery separators in the greater Asian market, the Company’s Energy Storage segment transferred certain assets from Europe and the United States to its facilities in Thailand and China. The capacity realignment plan included the closure of the Company’s facility in Feistritz, Austria, the downsizing of its Norderstedt, Germany facility and the relocation of certain assets from these two plants to the Company’s facilities in Prachinburi, Thailand. Additionally, finishing equipment from the Company’s facility in Charlotte, North Carolina was relocated to its facility in Shanghai, China. The total cost of the realignment plan is expected to be approximately $8,471,000, of which $7,586,000 was recognized through July 1, 2006. Of the remaining costs, $607,000 is expected to be recognized during the remainder of 2006 and $278,000 is expected to recognized during 2007 . In addition to the benefit of realigning capacity with market growth, the Company expects to realize costs savings, a portion of which will be realized in 2006 with the full impact expected to be realized in 2007. The timing and scope of these restructuring measures are subject to change as the Company further evaluates its business needs and costs.

Costs for the disassembly and moving of equipment, legal expenses and certain other costs of the realignment plan will be recognized as incurred in accordance with FASB Statement No. 146,Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities. These costs, which are included in the total cost of the realignment plan noted above, are expected to be approximately $1,818,000, of which $1,078,000 was recognized through July 1, 2006. The Company expects to recognize $484,000 of the remaining costs during the remainder of 2006 and to recognize $256,000 in costs during 2007.

2004 Restructuring Plan

In an effort to manage costs and in response to the decision of a customer to outsource its dialyzer production, the Company implemented a number of cost reduction measures in 2004 relating to the Separations Media segment, including employee layoffs, the relocation of certain research and development operations conducted in a leased facility in Europe to facilities where the related manufacturing operations are conducted and other cost reductions.

During 2004, the Company recorded a $13,899,000 charge for severance and benefit costs for the employee layoffs. In addition, the Company established a $1,788,000 accrual for raw materials, a portion of which the Company was obligated to purchase under an existing purchase commitment. In connection with the relocation of its research and development operations,total costs are expected to be approximately $2,760,000,of which $2,722,000 was recognized through July 1, 2006. The remaining costs are expected to be recognized during the latter half of 2006.

10

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

Restructuring activity during the six months ended July 1, 2006 consists of:

	Balance at							Foreign
	December 31,		Restructuring		Cash			Currency		Balance at
(in thousands)	2005		Charges		Payments			Translation		July 1, 2006
2005 Restructuring Plan:
Severance and benefit costs	$	1,506	$	338	$	(882	)	$	114	$	1,076
Other		—		393		(393	)		—		—
		1,506		731		(1,275	)		114		1,076
2004 Restructuring Plan:
Severance and benefit costs		4,069		—		(2,528	)		187		1,728
Raw materials		32		—		(33	)		1		—
Other		265		594		(806	)		8		61
		4,366		594		(3,367	)		196		1,789
Total	$	5,872	$	1,325	$	(4,642	)	$	310	$	2,865

Restructuring activity during the six months ended July 2, 2005 consists of:

	Balance at										Foreign
	January 1,		Restructuring		Non-cash			Cash			Currency			Balance at
(in thousands)	2005		Charges		Charges			Payments			Translation			July 2, 2005
2005 Restructuring Plan:
Severance and benefit costs	$	—	$	3,849	$	—		$	(10	)	$	(149	)	$	3,690
Asset disposals and impairments		—		1,278		(1,278	)		—			—			—
Other		—		21		—			(21	)		—			—
		—		5,148		(1,278	)		(31	)		(149	)		3,690
2004 Restructuring Plan:
Severance and benefit costs		14,944		—		—			(7,649	)		(1,082	)		6,213
Raw materials		1,256		—		—			—			(139	)		1,117
Other		—		254		—			(254	)		—			—
		16,200		254		—			(7,903	)		(1,221	)		7,330
Total	$	16,200	$	5,402	$	(1,278	)	$	(7,934	)	$	(1,370	)	$	11,020

8. Income Taxes

The income tax provision for the interim periods presented is computed at the effective rate expected to be applicable in each respective full year using the statutory rates on a country-by-country basis. Income tax expense recorded in the financial statements differs from the Federal statutory income tax rate due to a variety of factors, including state income taxes, the mix of income between U.S. and foreign jurisdictions taxed at varying rates, certain export sales which are excluded from taxable income and various changes in estimates of permanent differences and valuation allowances. The impact of these factors on the effective tax rate is exacerbated by the relatively low consolidated income before income taxes.

11

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

9. Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income is as follows:

	Three Months Ended					Six Months Ended
(in thousands)	July 1, 2006		July 2, 2005			July 1, 2006		July 2, 2005
Net income	$	3,993	$	3,309		$	7,358	$	8,762
Other comprehensive income (loss), primarily foreign currency translation		1,673		(3,127	)		3,213		(5,499	)
Comprehensive income	$	5,666	$	182		$	10,571	$	3,263

10. Related Party Transactions

The Company’s German subsidiary has equity investments in two companies that provide patent, trademark and research services for the Company. These investments represent 25% ownership in each of the firms and are accounted for by the equity method of accounting. The Company’s equity investment account balance was $169,000 and $150,000 at July 1, 2006 and December 31, 2005, respectively. Charges from the affiliates for work performed were $261,000 and $461,000 for the three and six months ended July 1, 2006, respectively. Charges from the affiliates for work performed were $291,000 and $723,000 for the three and six months ended July 2, 2005, respectively. The amount due to the affiliates at July 1, 2006 and December 31, 2005 was approximately $84,000.

11. Segment Information

The Company’s operations are principally managed on a products basis and are comprised of two reportable segments: Energy Storage and Separations Media. The Energy Storage segment produces and markets membranes that provide the critical function of separating the cathode and anode in a variety of battery markets, including lithium, industrial and transportation applications. The Separations Media segment produces and markets membranes used as the high technology filtration element in various healthcare and industrial applications.

The Company evaluates the performance of segments and allocates resources to segments based on operating income before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization.

12

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

Financial information relating to the reportable operating segments is presented below:

	Three Months Ended					Six Months Ended
	July 1,		July 2,			July 1,			July 2,
(in thousands)	2006		2005			2006			2005
Net sales to external customers:
Energy storage	$	87,807	$	81,657		$	170,962		$	157,916
Separations media		35,287		30,957			67,425			67,196
Total net sales to external customers	$	123,094	$	112,614		$	238,387		$	225,112
Operating income:
Energy storage	$	20,122	$	18,574		$	35,479		$	31,488
Separations media		2,571		3,733			5,029			11,318
Segment operating income		22,693		22,307			40,508			42,806
Business restructuring		553		5,402			1,325			5,402
Total operating income		22,140		16,905			39,183			37,404
Reconciling items:
Interest expense, net		17,503		14,817			33,786			29,747
Change in accounting principle related to postemployment benefits		—		—			(2,593	)		—
Foreign currency and other		1,282		(1,834	)		1,981			(3,405	)
Total consolidated income before income taxes	$	3,355	$	3,922		$	6,009		$	11,062
Depreciation and amortization:
Energy storage	$	7,720	$	8,282		$	15,726		$	16,682
Separations media		6,862		5,764			13,416			11,680
Total depreciation and amortization	$	14,582	$	14,046		$	29,142		$	28,362

12. Financial Statements of Guarantors

The Company’s senior subordinated notes are unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior basis by certain of the Company’s wholly owned subsidiaries (“Guarantors”). Management has determined that separate complete financial statements of the Guarantors would not be material to users of the financial statements.

The following sets forth condensed consolidating financial statements of the Guarantors and non-Guarantor subsidiaries.

13

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

12. Financial Statements of Guarantors (continued)

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
As of July 1, 2006

			Combined
	Combined		Non-				Reclassifications
	Guarantor		Guarantor		The		and
(in thousands)	Subsidiaries		Subsidiaries		Company		Eliminations			Consolidated
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	105	$	24,267	$	15,395	$	—		$	39,767
Accounts receivable, net		36,485		66,712		—		—			103,197
Inventories		16,191		50,953		—		—			67,144
Other		4,166		5,280		188		—			9,634
Total current assets		56,947		147,212		15,583		—			219,742
Due from affiliates		189,194		226,809		310,402		(726,405	)		—
Investment in subsidiaries		260,922		324,360		193,230		(778,512	)		—
Property, plant and equipment, net		109,183		271,684		—		—			380,867
Goodwill		—		—		567,587		—			567,587
Intangibles and loan acquisition costs, net		63		—		213,499		—			213,562
Other		957		17,929		—		—			18,886
Total assets	$	617,266	$	987,994	$	1,300,301	$	(1,504,917	)	$	1,400,644
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	8,941	$	39,681	$	17,240	$	—		$	65,862
Income taxes payable		1,157		3,950		—		—			5,107
Current portion of debt		—		219		2,829		—			3,048
Current portion of capital lease obligation		1,349		—		—		—			1,349
Total current liabilities		11,447		43,850		20,069		—			75,366
Due to affiliates		319,280		230,408		176,717		(726,405	)		—
Debt, less current portion		—		1,074		781,665		—			782,739
Capital lease obligation, less current portion		5,449		—		—		—			5,449
Pension and postretirement benefits		2,161		53,604		—		—			55,765
Postemployment benefits		—		4,701		—		—			4,701
Environmental reserve, less current portion		—		23,416		—		—			23,416
Deferred income taxes and other		63,456		67,902		—		—			131,358
Shareholders’ equity		215,473		563,039		321,850		(778,512	)		321,850
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	617,266	$	987,994	$	1,300,301	$	(1,504,917	)	$	1,400,644

14

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

12. Financial Statements of Guarantors (continued)

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
As of December 31, 2005

			Combined
	Combined		Non-
	Guarantor		Guarantor		The		Reclassifications
(in thousands)	Subsidiaries		Subsidiaries		Company		and Eliminations			Consolidated
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	20	$	18,173	$	9,387	$	—		$	27,580
Accounts receivable, net		31,049		57,298		—		—			88,347
Inventories		17,248		43,291		—		—			60,539
Other		4,523		4,396		18		—			8,937
Total current assets		52,840		123,158		9,405		—			185,403
Due from affiliates		177,296		220,628		294,385		(692,309	)		—
Investment in subsidiaries		244,560		317,381		169,117		(731,058	)		—
Property, plant and equipment, net		107,009		263,862		—		—			370,871
Goodwill		—		—		567,587		—			567,587
Intangibles and loan acquisition costs, net		70		—		221,936		—			222,006
Other		900		16,571		—		—			17,471
Total assets	$	582,675	$	941,600	$	1,262,430	$	(1,423,367	)	$	1,363,338
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	13,689	$	36,653	$	4,740	$	—		$	55,082
Income taxes payable		1,321		2,934		—		—			4,255
Current portion of debt		86		203		935		—			1,224
Current portion of capital lease obligation		1,326		—		—		—			1,326
Total current liabilities		16,422		39,790		5,675		—			61,887
Due to affiliates		296,605		216,983		178,721		(692,309	)		—
Debt, less current portion		—		1,004		766,755		—			767,759
Capital lease obligations, less current portion		6,018		—		—		—			6,018
Pension and postretirement benefits		2,112		49,274		—		—			51,386
Post employment benefits		—		7,096		—		—			7,096
Environmental reserve, less current portion		—		22,264		—		—			22,264
Deferred income taxes and other		63,456		72,193		—		—			135,649
Shareholders’ equity		198,062		532,996		311,279		(731,058	)		311,279
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	582,675	$	941,600	$	1,262,430	$	(1,423,367	)	$	1,363,338

15

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

12. Financial Statements of Guarantors (continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income

For the three months ended July 1, 2006

				Combined
	Combined			Non-
	Guarantor			Guarantor		The			Reclassifications
(in thousands)	Subsidiaries			Subsidiaries		Company			and Eliminations			Consolidated
Net sales	$	46,262		$	76,832	$	—		$	—		$	123,094
Cost of goods sold		19,483			58,978		—			—			78,461
Gross profit		26,779			17,854		—			—			44,633
Selling, general and administrative expenses		13,080			8,860		—			—			21,940
Business restructuring		—			553		—			—			553
Operating income		13,699			8,441		—			—			22,140
Other (income) expense, net		(399	)		974		18,210			—			18,785
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries		—			—		(11,299	)		11,299			—
Income (loss) before income taxes		14,098			7,467		(6,911	)		(11,299	)		3,355
Income taxes		6,617			3,649		(10,904	)		—			(638	)
Net income	$	7,481		$	3,818	$	3,993		$	(11,299	)	$	3,993

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
For the three months ended July 2, 2005

				Combined
	Combined			Non-
	Guarantor			Guarantor			The			Reclassifications
(in thousands)	Subsidiaries			Subsidiaries			Company			and Eliminations			Consolidated
Net sales	$	41,910		$	70,704		$	—		$	—		$	112,614
Cost of goods sold		19,849			52,256			—			—			72,105
Gross profit		22,061			18,448			—			—			40,509
Selling, general and administrative expenses		11,016			7,186			—			—			18,202
Business restructuring		159			5,243			—			—			5,402
Operating income		10,886			6,019			—			—			16,905
Other (income) expense, net		(87	)		(326	)		13,396			—			12,983
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries		—			—			(9,793	)		9,793			—
Income (loss) before income taxes		10,973			6,345			(3,603	)		(9,793	)		3,922
Income taxes		5,146			2,379			(6,912	)		—			613
Net income	$	5,827		$	3,966		$	3,309		$	(9,793	)	$	3,309

16

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

12. Financial Statements of Guarantors (continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income

For the six months ended July 1, 2006

				Combined
	Combined			Non-
	Guarantor			Guarantor			The			Reclassifications
(in thousands)	Subsidiaries			Subsidiaries			Company			and Eliminations			Consolidated
Net sales	$	92,109		$	146,278		$	—		$	—		$	238,387
Cost of goods sold		41,941			111,500			—			—			153,441
Gross profit		50,168			34,778			—			—			84,946
Selling, general and administrative expenses		26,677			17,761			—			—			44,438
Business restructuring		—			1,325			—			—			1,325
Operating income		23,491			15,692			—			—			39,183
Other (income) expense, net		(1,035	)		(654	)		34,863			—			33,174
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries		—			—			(24,711	)		24,711			—
Income (loss) before income taxes		24,526			16,346			(10,152	)		(24,711	)		6,009
Income taxes		13,243			2,918			(17,510	)		—			(1,349	)
Net income	$	11,283		$	13,428		$	7,358		$	(24,711	)	$	7,358

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
For the six months ended July 2, 2005

	Combined			Combined
	Guarantor			Non-Guarantor			The			Reclassifications
(in thousands)	Subsidiaries			Subsidiaries			Company			and Eliminations			Consolidated
Net sales	$	82,302		$	142,810		$	—		$	—		$	225,112
Cost of goods sold		41,544			104,170			—			—			145,714
Gross profit		40,758			38,640			—			—			79,398
Selling, general and administrative expenses		22,026			14,566			—			—			36,592
Business restructuring		159			5,243			—			—			5,402
Operating income		18,573			18,831			—			—			37,404
Other (income) expense, net		(604	)		(385	)		27,331			—			26,342
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries		—			—			(25,157	)		25,157			—
Income (loss) before income taxes		19,177			19,216			(2,174	)		(25,157	)		11,062
Income taxes		9,357			3,879			(10,936	)		—			2,300
Net income	$	9,820		$	15,337		$	8,762		$	(25,157	)	$	8,762

17

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

12. Financial Statements of Guarantors (continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
For the six months ended July 1, 2006

				Combined
	Combined			Non-
	Guarantor			Guarantor			The			Reclassifications
(in thousands)	Subsidiaries			Subsidiaries			Company			and Eliminations			Consolidated
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	21,794		$	10,781		$	14,689		$	(24,712	)	$	22,552
Investing activities:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment		(7,106	)		(4,022	)		—			—			(11,128	)
Net cash used in investing activities		(7,106	)		(4,022	)		—			—			(11,128	)
Financing activities:
Principal payments on debt		(631	)		(67	)		—			—			(698	)
Intercompany transactions, net		(14,019	)		(2,012	)		(8,681	)		24,712			—
Net cash (used in) financing activities		(14,650	)		(2,079	)		(8,681	)		24,712			(698	)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents		47			1,414			—			—			1,461
Net increase in cash and equivalents		85			6,094			6,008			—			12,187
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period		20			18,173			9,387			—			27,580
Cash and equivalents at end of period	$	105		$	24,267		$	15,395		$	—		$	39,767

18

Polypore, Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)

12. Financial Statements of Guarantors (continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
For the six months ended July 2, 2005

				Combined
	Combined			Non-
	Guarantor			Guarantor			The			Reclassifications
(in thousands)	Subsidiaries			Subsidiaries			Company			and Eliminations			Consolidated
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	28,350		$	28,494		$	5,038		$	(25,157	)	$	36,725
Investing activities:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment		(1,513	)		(5,104	)		—			—			(6,617	)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment		24			—			—			—			24
Net cash used in investing activities		(1,489	)		(5,104	)		—			—			(6,593	)
Financing activities:
Principal payments on debt		(629	)		(1,745	)		(25,019	)		—			(27,393	)
Loan acquisition costs		—			—			(415	)					(415	)
Intercompany transactions, nets		(28,119	)		(21,521	)		24,483			25,157			—
Net cash (used in) financing activities		(28,748	)		(23,266	)		(951	)		25,157			(27,808	)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents		40			(2,885	)		—			—			(2,845	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents		(1,847	)		(2,761	)		4,087			—			(521	)
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period		2,263			20,244			9,177			—			31,684
Cash and equivalents at end of period	$	416		$	17,483		$	13,264		$	—		$	31,163

19

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our unaudited consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report onForm 10-Q and our audited consolidated financial statements and the related notes included in our Annual Report onForm 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005.

Overview

We are a leading worldwide developer, manufacturer and marketer of highly specialized polymer-based membranes used in separation and filtration processes. Our products and technologies target specialized applications and markets that require the removal or separation of various materials from liquids, with such materials ranging in size from microscopic to those visible to the human eye.

We manage our operations under two business segments: energy storage and separations media. The energy storage segment, which accounts for approximately 70% of our total sales, produces different types of membranes that function as separators in lead-acid batteries used in transportation and industrial applications and in lithium batteries used in electronics applications. The separations media segment, which accounts for approximately 30% of our total sales, produces membranes used in various healthcare and industrial applications, including hemodialysis, blood oxygenation, ultrapure water filtration, degasification and other specialty applications.

We serve markets with an attractive mix of both stability and growth. Our lead-acid battery separators serve the stable and predictable market for transportation and industrial applications, with approximately 80% of sales for transportation applications coming from replacement products in the aftermarket. This replacement market is primarily driven by the growing size of the worldwide fleet of motor vehicles, which according toWard’s Motor Vehicles Facts and Figures,has been growing approximately 3% per year. According to industry analysts, sales in the rechargeable lithium battery market are expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of approximately 16% through 2011, driven by growth in underlying markets for portable electronic products (primarily mobile telephones and laptop computers) and the displacement of nickel-based battery technologies. In our primary healthcare end-market, hemodialysis, industry analysts estimate that the number of end-stage renal disease patients has been growing 7% per year over the last twenty years, while the frequent dialysis treatments required to treat the disease create a stable and recurring demand for dialyzers and our dialyzer membranes. In our industrial and specialty filtration markets, ever-increasing demand for higher-purity process streams is driving high growth rates in a variety of end-markets, including semiconductor and microelectronics manufacturing, food and beverage processing and water purification.

Our markets are highly specialized, and we generally compete with only a few other companies. We enjoy longstanding relationships and collaborative partnerships with a diverse base of customers who are among the leaders in their respective markets. These relationships are strengthened by our ability to develop highly technical membrane products that meet the precise and evolving needs of our customers. Most of our products require years of cooperative development with customers, extensive testing and, in some applications, regulatory approval prior to the introduction of our customers’ products to the market. Although many of our products are critical functional components in our customers’ end products, they typically represent a relatively small percentage of the final delivered cost. In many of our markets we are often selected as the customer’s exclusive supplier.

We serve our customers globally with strategically located manufacturing facilities in the major geographic markets of North America, Europe and Asia.

Historically, our growth has been both organic and through acquisitions. In February 2002, we acquired Membrana GmbH, a German corporation, from Acordis A.G., or “Acordis,” to expand our presence in attractive healthcare and specialty filtration markets. Almost every process stream has a filtration application, while many end products require materials possessing specialized filtration and separation functions. The large and extremely fragmented filtration and separation market presents an opportunity for further consolidation into our already diverse markets and leading platform of technologies.

On May 13, 2004, the Company was acquired by Polypore International, Inc. Polypore International, Inc. is owned, directly and indirectly, by Warburg Pincus Private Equity VIII, L.P. and Warburg Pincus International Partners, L.P. The aggregate purchase price, including acquisition related costs, was approximately $1.15 billion in cash. In connection with the acquisition, the Company obtained a new credit facility, issued 8.75% senior subordinated notes and received equity contributions from its shareholders. These net proceeds were used to pay the net purchase price to the existing shareholders, repay all outstanding indebtedness under the Company’s then-existing credit facility and pay transaction related fees and expenses.

20

Critical accounting policies

Critical accounting policies are those accounting policies that can have a significant impact on the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations, and that require the use of complex and subjective estimates based on past experience and management’s judgment. Because of the uncertainty inherent in such estimates, actual results may differ from these estimates. These policies are critical to the understanding of our operating results and financial condition and include the policies related to the allowance for doubtful accounts, the impairment of intangibles and goodwill, pension and other postretirement benefits and environmental matters. For a discussion of each of these policies, please see the discussion entitled “Critical Accounting Policies” under Item 7 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005.

Results of Operations

The following tables set forth, for the periods indicated, certain historical operating data of Polypore in amount and as a percentage of net sales:

	Three months ended						Three months ended
($’s in millions)	July 1, 2006			July 2, 2005			July 1, 2006			July 2, 2005
Net sales	$	123.1		$	112.6			100.0	%		100.0	%
Gross profit		44.6			40.5			36.3	%		36.0	%
Selling, general and administrative expenses		21.9			18.2			17.8	%		16.2	%
Business restructuring		0.6			5.4			0.5	%		4.8	%
Operating income		22.1			16.9			18.0	%		15.0	%
Interest expense, net		17.5			14.8			14.2	%		13.1	%
Foreign currency and other		1.3			(1.8	)		1.1	%		(1.6	)%
		18.8			13.0			15.3	%		11.5	%
Income before income taxes		3.4			3.9			2.7	%		3.5	%
Income taxes		(0.6	)		0.6			(0.5	)%		0.5	%
Net income	$	4.0		$	3.3			3.2	%		2.9	%
	Six months ended						Six months ended
($’s in millions)	July 1, 2006			July 2, 2005			July 1, 2006			July 2, 2005
Net sales	$	238.4		$	225.1			100.0	%		100.0	%
Gross profit		84.9			79.4			35.6	%		35.3	%
Selling, general and administrative expenses		44.4			36.6			18.6	%		16.3	%
Business restructuring		1.3			5.4			0.6	%		2.4	%
Operating income		39.2			37.4			16.4	%		16.6	%
Interest expense, net		33.8			29.7			14.2	%		13.2	%
Change in accounting principle related to postemployment benefits		(2.6	)		—			(1.1	)%		—	%
Foreign currency and other		2.0			(3.4	)		0.8	%		(1.5	)%
		33.2			26.3			13.9	%		11.7	%
Income before income taxes		6.0			11.1			2.5	%		4.9	%
Income taxes		(1.4	)		2.3			(0.6	)%		1.0	%
Net income	$	7.4		$	8.8			3.1	%		3.9	%

21

Comparison of the three months ended July 1, 2006 with the three months ended July 2, 2005

Net sales

Energy storage sales increased by $6.2 million to $87.8 million for the three months ended July 1, 2006. The increase in energy storage sales was primarily driven by a $2.9 million increase in lead-acid battery separator sales and a $4.1 million increase in lithium battery separator sales. These increases were partially offset by the negative impact of dollar/euro exchange rate fluctuations of $0.7 million. The increase in lead-acid battery separator sales was primarily attributable to increased volume demand, particularly in Asia, and to a lesser extent, the global price increase that was implemented in the fourth quarter of 2005. The increase in sales of lithium battery separators was driven by volume growth for rechargeable lithium battery separators, partially offset by lower average selling prices due primarily to customer and product mix.

Separations media sales increased by $4.3 million to $35.3 million for the three months ended July 1, 2006. The increase in separations media sales consisted of a $3.0 million increase in sales of filtration membranes and a $1.7 million increase in sales of hemodialysis products, partially offset by the negative impact of dollar/euro exchange rate fluctuations of $0.7 million. The increase in filtration was primarily driven by increased volume demand from existing customers, new customers and new applications for microporous technology. The increase in hemodialysis membrane sales is primarily due to increased sales volumes of synthetic membranes, partially offset by a decline in cellulosic membrane sales and lower average selling prices. The decline in average selling prices is due to a higher portion of sales being made to our larger customers who receive lower average selling prices. In response to the decline in cellulosic demand, we are obtaining firm sales commitments from our customers for their future cellulosic needs. Based on current estimates, demand is sufficient to support continued production of cellulosic membranes at least into the fourth quarter of 2006 to meet customer needs in 2006, 2007 and 2008. We expect to finalize customer commitments during the third quarter of 2006, and based on these commitments, make a decision to scale back or cease production of cellulosic membranes. Although the exact timing is not known, we expect to have a plan to realign our cost structure and to record a restructuring charge in the third or fourth quarter of 2006.

Gross Profit

Energy storage gross profit increased by $3.4 million to $34.5 million for the three months ended July 1, 2006. Gross profit as a percentage of sales increased from 38.1% in the second quarter of 2005 to 39.3% in 2006 and was primarily driven by lower production costs per unit as increased production volumes resulted in fixed costs being applied to higher production volumes. Raw material and energy cost increases have been largely offset by internal cost saving actions and recent price increases.

Separations media gross profit increased by $0.7 million to $10.1 million for the three months ended July 1, 2006. Gross profit as a percentage of sales decreased from 30.3% in the second quarter of 2005 to 28.6% in 2006 and was primarily due to lower average selling prices of hemodialysis membranes associated with customer mix and higher energy costs, partially offset by cost reductions resulting from the 2004 business restructuring and production efficiencies related to the accelerated production volumes of cellulosic hemodialysis membranes during 2006. In response to the decline in cellulosic demand, we expect to have a plan to realign our cost structure in the third or fourth quarter of 2006.

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $3.7 million primarily due to increased costs aimed at driving growth, including personnel costs and the accrual of performance-based incentive compensation plan costs, and increased selling and other expenses.

Interest expense

The $2.7 million increase in interest expense was primarily due to the increase in the interest rates on our debt, partially offset by the lower debt balances resulting from $23.0 million in debt repayments occurring in the latter half of 2005. The increase in interest rates on our variable rate debt were driven by increases in the underlying base rates and an increase in our interest rate margin percentage by 75 basis points as part of the amendment to our Credit Facility in December 2005.

Income taxes

The income tax provision for the interim periods presented is computed at the effective rate expected to be applicable in each respective full year using the statutory rates on a country-by-country basis. The effective tax rate for the three months ended July 1, 2006 was (19.0)% as compared to 15.6% in the prior year. Our effective tax rates varies due to a variety of factors, including state income taxes, the mix of income between U.S. and foreign jurisdictions taxed at varying rates, certain export

22

sales which are excluded from taxable income and various changes in estimates of permanent differences and valuation allowances. The impact of these factors on the effective tax rate is exacerbated by the relatively low consolidated income before income taxes.

Comparison of the six months ended July 1, 2006 with the six months ended July 2, 2005

Net sales

Energy storage sales increased by $13.1 million to $171.0 million for the six months ended July 1, 2006. The increase in energy storage sales was primarily driven by an $8.1 million increase in lead-acid battery separator sales and an $8.9 million increase in lithium battery separator sales. These increases were partially offset by the negative impact of dollar/euro exchange rate fluctuations of $3.9 million. The increase in lead-acid battery separator sales was primarily attributable to increased volume demand, particularly in Asia, and to a lesser extent, the global price increase that was implemented in the fourth quarter of 2005. The increase in sales of lithium battery separators was primarily driven by volume growth for rechargeable lithium battery separators, partially offset by lower average selling prices due primarily to customer and product mix.

Separations media sales increased by $0.2 million to $67.4 million for the six months ended July 1, 2006. The increase in separations media sales consisted of a $5.9 increase in sales of filtration products, a $1.6 million decrease in sales of hemodialysis membranes and the negative impact of dollar/euro exchange rate fluctuations of $3.3 million. The increase in filtration sales was primarily driven by increased volume demand from existing customers, new customers and new applications of microporous technology. The decrease in hemodialysis membrane sales is primarily due to a decline in cellulosic membrane sales and lower average selling prices, partially offset by increased sales volumes of synthetic membranes. The decline in average selling prices is due to a higher portion of sales being made to our larger customers who receive lower average selling prices.

Gross Profit

Energy storage gross profit increased by $8.4 million to $65.1 million for the six months ended July 1, 2006. Gross profit as a percentage of sales increased from 36.0% in the first half of 2005 to 38.1% in 2006 and was primarily driven by lower production costs per unit as increased production volumes resulted in fixed costs being applied to higher production volumes. Raw material and energy cost increases have been largely offset by internal cost saving actions and recent price increases.

Separations media gross profit decreased by $2.8 million to $19.8 million for the six months ended July 1, 2006. Gross profit as a percentage of sales decreased from 33.6% in the first half of 2005 to 29.4% in 2006 and was primarily driven by lower average selling prices of hemodialysis membranes related to customer mix and higher energy costs, partially offset by cost reductions resulting from the 2004 business restructuring and production efficiencies related to the accelerated production volumes of cellulosic hemodialysis membranes during 2006.

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $7.8 million primarily due to increased costs aimed at driving growth, including personnel costs and the accrual of performance-based incentive compensation plan costs, and increased selling and other expenses.

Interest expense

The $4.1 million increase in interest expense was primarily due to the increase in the interest rates on our debt, partially offset by the lower debt balances resulting from $50.4 million in debt repayments occurring in 2005. The increase in interest rates on our variable rate debt were driven by increases in the underlying base rates and an increase in our interest rate margin percentage by 75 basis points as part of the amendment to our Credit Facility in December 2005.

Income taxes

The income tax provision for the interim periods presented is computed at the effective rate expected to be applicable in each respective full year using the statutory rates on a country-by-country basis. The effective tax rate for the six months ended July 1, 2006 was (22.4)% as compared to 20.8% in the prior year. Our effective tax rates varies due to a variety of factors, including state income taxes, the mix of income between U.S. and foreign jurisdictions taxed at varying rates, certain export sales which are excluded from taxable income and various changes in estimates of permanent differences and valuation allowances. The impact of these factors on the effective tax rate is exacerbated by the relatively low consolidated income before income taxes.

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Business restructuring

2005 Restructuring Plan

During 2005, we initiated a business restructuring to better accommodate customer growth and related demand for both lead-acid and lithium battery separators in the greater Asian market. The realignment plan included the closure and downsizing of two European plants and the relocation of certain assets from those plants to our plant in Thailand. The plan also included the relocation of finishing equipment from the United States to China. During the three and six months ended July 1, 2006, we recorded $0.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively, in severance and benefit costs and $0.3 million and $0.4 million, respectively, in relocation costs related to this realignment plan. The total cost of the realignment plan is expected to be approximately $8.5 million, of which $7.6 million was recognized through July 1, 2006. Of the remaining costs, $0.6 million is expected to be recognized during the remainder of 2006 and $0.3 million is expected to be recognized during 2007.

2004 Restructuring Plan

In 2004, we initiated a business restructuring as part of an effort to manage costs and in response to the decision by one of our customers to outsource its dialyzer production. The cost reduction measures that we implemented included employee layoffs and the relocation of certain research and development operations. We also reserved for raw materials, including raw materials we were obligated to purchase under an existing purchase commitment. During the three and six months ended July 1, 2006, we recorded $0.1 million and $0.6 million, respectively, in costs related to the relocation of the research and development facilities. Total costs associated with the relocation are expected to be approximately $2.8 million, of which $2.7 million was recognized through July 1, 2006. The remaining costs are expected to be recognized during the latter half of 2006.

Restructuring activity during the six months ended July 1, 2006 consisted of:

	Balance at							Foreign
	December 31,		Restructuring		Cash			Currency		Balance at
(in millions)	2005		Charges		Payments			Translation		July 1, 2006
2005 Restructuring Plan:
Severance and benefit costs	$	1.5	$	0.3	$	(0.9	)	$	0.1	$	1.1
Other		—		0.4		(0.4	)		—		—
		1.5		0.7		(1.3	)		—		1.1
2004 Restructuring Plan:
Severance and benefit costs		4.1		—		(2.5	)		0.2		1.7
Other		0.3		0.6		(0.8	)		—		0.1
		4.4		0.6		(3.4	)		0.2		1.8
Total	$	5.9	$	1.3	$	(4.6	)	$	0.3	$	2.9

Restructuring activity during the six months ended July 2, 2005 consisted of:

											Foreign
	Balance at		Restructuring		Non-cash			Cash			Currency			Balance at
(in millions)	January 1, 2005		Charges		Charges			Payments			Translation			July 2, 2005
2005 Restructuring Plan:
Severance and benefit costs	$	—	$	3.8	$	—		$	—		$	(0.1	)	$	3.7
Asset disposals and impairments		—		1.3		(1.3	)		—			—			—
		—		5.1		(1.3	)		—			(0.1	)		3.7
2004 Restructuring Plan:
Severance and benefit costs		14.9		—		—			(7.6	)	$	(1.1	)	$	6.2
Raw materials		1.3		—		—			—			(0.1	)		1.1
Other		—		0.3		—			(0.3	)		—			—
		16.2		0.3		—			(7.9	)	$	(1.2	)	$	7.3
Total	$	16.2	$	5.4	$	(1.3	)	$	(7.9	)	$	(1.4	)	$	11.0

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

Cash and cash equivalents increased to $39.8 million at July 1, 2006 from $27.6 million at December 31, 2005, primarily due to cash flows from operations of $22.6 million, partially offset by capital expenditures of $11.1 million.

Operating activities. Net cash provided by operations was $22.6 million in the six months ended July 1, 2006, as compared to $36.7 million in the six months ended July 2, 2005. Cash provided by operations for the six months ended July 1, 2006 consisted of net income before non-cash expenses of $31.1 million, less an increase in working capital. Accounts receivable increased from December 31, 2005 to July 1, 2006 by approximately $10.9 million (excluding the $3.9 million increase due to movements in the dollar / euro exchange rate) primarily due to the increase in sales during the quarter while days sales outstanding remained comparable to prior periods. Inventories increased approximately $3.3 million (excluding the $3.3 million increase due to movements in the dollar / euro exchange rate) primarily due to the build-up of cellulosic inventories as we produce during 2006 to meet customer sales commitments for 2006, 2007 and 2008. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities increased approximately $6.3 million (excluding the $4.4 million increase due to movements in the dollar / euro exchange rate) primarily due to an increase in accrued personnel costs, including the performance-based incentive compensation plan accrual.

Cash provided by operations for the six months ended July 2, 2005 primarily consisted of net income before non-cash expenses, offset somewhat by an increase in working capital. During 2005, accounts receivable decreased approximately $9.6 million (excluding a $6.2 million decrease due to movements in the dollar / euro exchange range) primarily due to a 21% decrease in days sales outstanding primarily driven by the timing of payments from customers and the collection of a past due receivable. In 2004, a customer decided to outsource its dialyzer production and withheld payment on their account until certain issues unrelated to the collection of the receivable were resolved. Inventories increased approximately $2.7 million (excluding the $4.4 million decrease due to movements in the dollar / euro exchange rate) primarily due to the planned inventory build to accommodate our annual European shutdowns for routine maintenance in the third quarter. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities decreased approximately $11.7 million (excluding a $6.1 million decrease due to movements in the dollar / euro exchange rate) primarily due to a decrease in the restructuring accrual of $3.8 million and the timing of payments.

Investing activities. Capital expenditures were $11.1 million and $6.6 million in the six months ended July 1, 2006 and July 2, 2005, respectively. We expect to spend approximately $20.0 million for capital expenditures in fiscal 2006.

Financing activities. Cash used in financing activities was $0.7 million and $27.8 million in the six months ended July 1, 2006 and July 2, 2005, respectively. During the six months ended July 2, 2005, we made an optional prepayment of $25.0 million on the term loans under the Credit Facility.

Our Credit Facility is comprised of a U.S. dollar term loan facility ($328.2 million outstanding at July 1, 2006), a Eurodollar term loan facility ($40.5 million outstanding at July 1, 2006) and a $90.0 million revolving credit facility (all of which remains unfunded). The term loan facilities come due in 2011, and the revolving credit facility is due is 2010.

Borrowings under our Credit Facility bear interest at our choice of the Eurodollar rate or adjusted base rate, in each case, plus an applicable margin, subject to adjustment based on a pricing grid. At July 1, 2006, the interest rates our U.S. dollar term loan and Eurodollar term loan facilities were 7.98% and 5.80%, respectively.

Our Credit Facility requires us to meet a minimum interest coverage ratio, a maximum leverage ratio and a maximum capital expenditures limitation. Under our Credit Facility, compliance with the minimum interest coverage ratio and maximum leverage ratio tests is determined based on a calculation of adjusted EBITDA over the preceding twelve months in which certain items are added back to EBITDA. We monitor the quarterly adjusted EBITDA calculation to track performance relative to our financial covenants included in our Credit Facility.

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Adjusted EBITDA, as defined under the credit agreement, is calculated as follows:

	Twelve Months			Three Months
	Ended			Ended
(in millions)	July 1, 2006			July 1, 2006
Net income	$	12.5		$	4.0
Add:
Depreciation and amortization		54.9			14.6
Interest expense, net		64.0			17.5
Provision for income taxes		(5.7	)		(0.6	)
EBITDA		125.7			35.5
Add:
Foreign currency loss		1.1			1.1
Operating lease payments on lease that was terminated (1)		2.0			—
Other non-cash charges (2)		(1.9	)		0.3
Business restructuring		4.7			0.6
Loss on disposal of property, plant, and equipment		1.3			0.7
Adjusted EBITDA	$	132.9		$	38.2

(1)	Represents payments under an operating lease agreement that the Company terminated during the second quarter of 2006 and purchased the equipment from the lessor.
(2)	Represents other income of $2.6 million resulting from a reduction of the postemployment benefits accrual upon adoption of EITF 05-5 and compensation expense recorded under EITF 05-5 of $0.3 million and $0.7 million during the three and twelve months periods ended July 1, 2006, respectively.

The calculation of the minimum interest coverage ratio is as follows:

	Twelve Months
	Ended
(in millions)	July 1, 2006
Adjusted EBITDA	$	132.9
Consolidated interest expense, as defined in the Credit Agreement		61.1
Actual interest coverage ratio		2.18	x
Permitted minimum interest coverage ratio		1.70	x

Under our Credit Facility, we are required to maintain a ratio of Adjusted EBITDA to interest expense for any four consecutive fiscal quarters ending during any of the following periods or on any of the following dates of at least the following ratios:

Date or Period	Ratio
April 1, 2006 through March 31, 2007		1.70 to 1.00
June 30, 2007		1.75 to 1.00
September 29, 2007 through June 28, 2008		1.90 to 1.00
September 27, 2008 through January 3, 2009		2.00 to 1.00
January 4, 2009 through January 2, 2010		2.75 to 1.00
April 3, 2010 and each fiscal quarter thereafter		3.00 to 1.00

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The calculation of the maximum leverage ratio is as follows:

	Twelve Months
	Ended
(in millions)	July 1, 2006
Indebtedness, as defined in the Credit Agreement	$	792.6
Adjusted EBITDA		132.9
Actual leverage ratio		5.96	x
Permitted maximum leverage ratio		6.90	x

Under our Credit Facility, we are required to maintain a ratio of total indebtedness to Adjusted EBITDA at the end of any quarter ending during any of the following periods or on any of the following dates of not more than the following ratios:

Date or Period	Ratio
April 1, 2006 through March 31, 2007		6.90 to 1.00
June 30, 2007		6.75 to 1.00
September 29, 2007		6.50 to 1.00
December 29, 2007		6.25 to 1.00
March 29, 2008		6.00 to 1.00
June 28, 2008		5.75 to 1.00
September 27, 2008 through January 3, 2009		5.50 to 1.00
January 4, 2009 through October 3, 2009		4.25 to 1.00
January 2, 2010 and each fiscal quarter thereafter		4.00 to 1.00

In addition, the Credit Facility contains certain restrictive covenants which, among other things, limit the incurrence of additional indebtedness, investments, dividends, transactions with affiliates, asset sales, acquisitions, mergers and consolidations, prepayments of other indebtedness, liens and encumbrances and other matters customarily restricted in such agreements. The facilities also contain certain customary events of default, subject to grace periods, as appropriate. We believe that annual capital expenditure limitations imposed by our Credit Facility will not significantly inhibit us from meeting our ongoing capital expenditure needs.

Our 8.75% Notes ($415.8 million outstanding at July 1, 2006) that mature in 2012 are guaranteed by most of our existing and future domestic restricted subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions. Except under certain circumstances, the 8.75% Notes do not require principal payments prior to their maturity in 2012. Interest on the 8.75% Notes is payable semi-annually in cash. The 8.75% Notes contain customary covenants and events of default, including covenants that limit our ability to incur debt, pay dividends and make investments.

As of July 1, 2006, our cash interest requirements for the next 12 months are expected to be approximately $66.7 million.

We intend to fund our ongoing operations through cash generated by operations and availability under our Credit Facility. We believe we have sufficient liquidity to meet our cash requirements over both the short (next twelve months) and long term (in relation to our debt service requirements). In evaluating the sufficiency of our liquidity for both the shorter and longer term, we considered the expected cash flow to be generated by our operations and the available borrowings under our Credit Facility compared to our anticipated cash requirements for debt service, working capital, cash taxes, and capital expenditures as well as funding requirements for long-term liabilities. We anticipate that our operating cash flow, together with borrowings under the revolving credit facility, will be sufficient to meet our anticipated future operating expenses, capital expenditures and debt service obligations as they become due for at least the next twelve months. However, our ability to make scheduled payments of principal, to pay interest on or to refinance our indebtedness and to satisfy our other debt obligations will depend upon our future operating performance, which will be affected by general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory, business and other factors beyond our control. See “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K.

From time to time, we may explore additional financing methods and other means to lower our cost of capital, which could include stock issuance or debt financing and the application of the proceeds therefrom to the repayment of bank debt or other indebtedness. In addition, in connection with any future acquisitions, we may require additional funding which may be provided in the form of additional debt or equity financing or a combination thereof. There can be no assurance that any additional financing will be available to us on acceptable terms.

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Foreign Operations

We manufacture our products at 11 strategically located facilities in North America, Europe and Asia. Net sales from the foreign locations were approximately $142.9 million for the six months ended July 1, 2006 and July 2, 2005. Typically, we sell our products in the currency of the country where the manufacturing facility that produces the product is located. Sales to foreign customers are subject to numerous additional risks, including the impact of foreign government regulations, currency fluctuations, political uncertainties and differences in business practices. There can be no assurance that foreign governments will not adopt regulations or take other action that would have a direct or indirect adverse impact on our business or market opportunities within such governments’ countries. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that the political, cultural and economic climate outside the United States will be favorable to our operations and growth strategy.

Environmental matters

The Company accrues for environmental obligations when such expenditures are probable and reasonably estimable. The amount of liability recorded is based on currently available information, including the progress of remedial investigations, current status of discussions with regulatory authorities regarding the method and extent of remediation, presently enacted laws and existing technology. Accruals for estimated losses from environmental obligations are adjusted as further information develops or circumstances change. Costs of future expenditures for environmental obligations are not discounted to their present value. Recoveries of environmental costs from other parties are recognized as assets when their receipt is deemed probable. Environmental reserves were $26.8 million and $25.6 million as of July 1, 2006 and December 31, 2005, respectively.

The Company received a Finding of Violation dated March 28, 2005 from the EPA alleging a noncompliance with the Title V Air Operating Permit at its Corydon, Indiana facility relating to the control of fugitive emissions at the facility. The Company recorded a reserve in 2005 for its best estimate of potential penalties. During the first quarter of 2006, the Company finalized an agreement with the EPA that was consistent with the Company’s original estimate.

In 2004, the Company recorded a reserve for potential environmental contamination at its manufacturing facility in Potenza, Italy. Environmental studies were performed and a plan for remediation was developed and refined with assistance from a third-party advisor and in consultation with the Italian environmental authorities. The Company anticipates that expenditures will continue to be made over the next seven to ten years.

In 2002, the Company recorded a reserve for environmental obligations at its Membrana facility providing for costs to remediate known environmental issues and operational upgrades which are required in order for the Company to remain in compliance with local regulations. The Company anticipates that expenditures will continue to be made over the next seven to ten years.

The Company has indemnification agreements for certain environmental matters from Acordis A.G. (“Acordis”) and Akzo Nobel (“Akzo”), the prior owner of Membrana. Akzo originally provided broad environmental protections to Acordis with the right to assign such indemnities to Acordis’s successors. Akzo’s indemnifications relate to conditions existing prior to December 1999, which is the date that Membrana was sold to Acordis. The Akzo agreement provides indemnification of claims through December 2007, with the indemnification percentage decreasing each year during the coverage period. Through December 2003, Akzo pays 75% of any approved claim. After that, Akzo pays 65% of claims reported through December 2006 and 50% of claims reported through December 2007. In addition to the Akzo indemnification, Acordis provides separate indemnification of claims incurred from December 1999 through February 2002, the acquisition date. At July 1, 2006 and December 31, 2005, amounts receivable under the indemnification agreement were $18,729,000 and $17,369,000, respectively. Payments on these indemnification receivables will be due as the Company expends funds for the environmental matters.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company is not a party to any off-balance sheet arrangements that have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future effect on the Company’s financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that are material to investors.

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New Accounting Standards

On January 1, 2006, the Company adopted FASB Statement No. 154,Accounting Changes and Error Corrections(“FAS 154”). This standard establishes new standards on accounting for all voluntary changes in accounting principle and changes required by an accounting pronouncement in the unusual instance that the pronouncement does not include specific transition provisions. Pursuant to the new rules, all such changes must be accounted for by retrospective application to the financial statements of prior periods unless it is impracticable to do so. FAS 154 completely replaces APB Opinion No. 20 and FAS 3, though it carries forward the guidance in those pronouncements with respect to accounting for changes in estimates, changes in the reporting entity and the correction of errors.

On January 1, 2006, the Company adopted EITF Issue No. 05-5. The EITF agreed with FASB staff observations that the salary components of Type I and Type II ATZ arrangements (excluding the bonus and additional contributions into the German government pension scheme) should be recognized over the period from the point at which the ATZ period begins until the end of the active service period. Additionally, the portion of the salary that is deferred under a Type II arrangement should be discounted if payment is expected to be deferred for a period longer than one year. In addition, the EITF reached a consensus that the bonus feature and the additional contributions into the German government pension scheme (collectively, the additional compensation) under a Type II ATZ arrangement should be accounted for as a postemployment benefit under Statement 112. An entity should recognize the additional compensation over the period from the point at which the employee signs the ATZ contract until the end of the active service period. The EITF also concluded that the employer should recognize the government subsidy when it meets the necessary criteria and is entitled to the subsidy. As a result of adopting this consensus, which was treated as a change in accounting estimate effected by a change in accounting principle as described in paragraph 19 of FAS 154, the Company is required to recognize the bonus feature of its ATZ arrangements over the remaining active service period of the employees that have signed ATZ contracts. The Company had previously accrued for the bonus feature of its ATZ arrangements through purchase accounting in connection with an acquisition in 2002. As a result of the adoption of EITF 05-5, the Company reduced the accrual for postemployment benefits and recognized $2.6 million in other income in the three months ended April 1, 2006. This reduction in the postemployment benefits accrual increased net income by $1.6 million, net of $1.0 million in income tax expense. The impact of adopting EITF 05-5 is expected to result in additional compensation expense of approximately $1.2 million in 2006, of which $0.3 million and $0.7 million was recognized in the three and six months ended July 1, 2006, respectively. The impact of this additional compensation expense reduced net income by $0.2 million, net of income taxes of $0.1 million, during the three months ended July 1, 2006 and reduced net income by $0.4 million, net of income taxes of $0.3 million, during the six months ended July 1, 2006.

On January 1, 2006, the Company adopted FASB Statement No. 151,Inventory Costs(“FAS 151”). This statement amends Accounting Research Bulletin No. 43, Chapter 4,Inventory Pricing, to clarify the accounting for abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs and wasted material (spoilage). FAS 151 requires that idle facility expense, excess spoilage, double freight and re-handling costs be recognized as current-period charges regardless of whether they meet the criterion of “so abnormal”. FAS 151 also requires that allocation of fixed production overhead expenses to the costs of conversion be based on the normal capacity of the production facilities. The adoption of FAS 151 did not have an impact on the Company’s financial statements.

In June 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48,Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an Interpretation of FASB Statement 109(“FIN 48”), which clarifies the accounting for uncertain tax positions. This Interpretation allows the tax effects from an uncertain tax position be recognized in the Company’s financial statements if the position is more likely than not to be sustained upon audit, based on the technical merits of the position. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting FIN 48 on its consolidated financial statements.

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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

We are exposed to various market risks, which are potential losses arising from adverse changes in market rates and prices, such as interest rates and foreign currency exchange fluctuations. We do not enter into derivatives or other financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Interest rate risk

At July 1, 2006, we had fixed rate debt of approximately $415.8 million and variable rate debt of approximately $368.7 million. The pre-tax earnings and cash flow impact resulting from a 100 basis point increase in interest rates on our variable rate debt, holding other variables constant, would be approximately $3.7 million per year. We currently are not a party to any interest rate hedging arrangements. We may decide in the future to enter into interest rate hedging arrangements.

Currency risk

Outside of the United States, we maintain assets and operations in Europe and, to a lesser extent, Asia. The results of operations and financial position of our foreign operations are principally measured in their respective currency and translated into U.S. dollars. As a result, exposure to foreign currency gains and losses exists. The reported income of these subsidiaries will be higher or lower depending on a weakening or strengthening of the U.S. dollar against the respective foreign currency. Our subsidiaries and affiliates also purchase and sell products and services in various currencies. As a result, we may be exposed to cost increases relative to the local currencies in the markets in which we sell. Because the percentage of our revenues in a foreign currency differs from the percentage of our costs in that currency, a change in the relative value of the U.S. dollar could have a disproportionate impact on our revenues compared to our cost, which could impact our margins. A portion of our assets are based in our foreign locations and are translated into U.S. dollars at foreign currency exchange rates in effect as of the end of each period, with the effect of such translation reflected in other comprehensive income (loss). We have a euro-denominated term loan and senior subordinated notes that effectively hedge the Company’s net investment in foreign subsidiaries. Therefore, foreign currency gains and losses resulting from the translation of the euro-denominated debt are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Accordingly, our consolidated shareholders’ equity will fluctuate depending upon the weakening or strengthening of the U.S. dollar against the respective foreign currency, primarily the euro.

The dollar/euro exchange rates used in our financial statements for the periods ended as set forth below were as follows:

	July 1, 2006		July 2, 2005
Period end rate		1.2721		1.2111
Period average rate for the three months ended		1.2561		1.2907
Period average rate for the six months ended		1.2295		1.3077

Our strategy for management of currency risk relies primarily on conducting our operations in a country’s respective currency and may, from time to time, involve currency derivatives. As of July 1, 2006, we did not have any foreign currency derivatives outstanding.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

An evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13(a)-15(e) and 15(d)-15(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act) was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective, as of July 1, 2006, to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in its reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC.

During the three months ended July 1, 2006, there has been no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) promulgated under the Exchange Act) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

We are currently a party to various claims and legal actions that arise in the ordinary course of business. We believe such claims and legal actions, individually and in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Item 6. Exhibits

Exhibit No.	Exhibit Description
10.1	Employment Agreement, dated as of April 17, 2006, by and between Polypore, Inc. and Mitchell J. Pulwer
10.2	Agreement and Release, dated as of April 17, 2006, by and between Celgard, LLC, a subsidiary of Polypore, Inc. and Bradley W. Reed
10.3	Employment Agreement, dated as of April 4, 2006, by and between Membrana, GmbH, a subsidiary of Polypore, Inc. and Josef Sauer
10.4	Polypore International, Inc. 2006 Stock Option Plan
10.5	Form of Option Agreement pursuant to the Polypore International, Inc. 2006 Stock Option Plan
31.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

Date: August 15, 2006	POLYPORE, INC. (Registrant)
	By:	/s/ Robert B. Toth
		Robert B. Toth
		President and Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer)
	By:	/s/ Lynn Amos
		Lynn Amos
		Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer and principal accounting officer)

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