European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Air Liquide Invests €50 Million in Antwerp Basin

At a glance
  • Air Liquide will invest €50 million in a new carbon monoxide unit in Antwerp.
  • The unit will be operational by the first quarter of 2015.
  • The contract is with BASF for its MDI production unit.
  • The new unit will double Air Liquide's carbon monoxide production capacity.

Investment and Expansion

Air Liquide is set to invest €50 million in the Antwerp basin, the largest chemical and petrochemical hub in Europe. This investment will fund a new carbon monoxide production unit adjacent to its existing facilities.

Contract with BASF

The new unit is part of a long-term contract with BASF, aimed at supplying carbon monoxide to BASF's MDI production unit in Antwerp, Belgium. MDI, or Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate, is a key component in manufacturing polyurethane, used in various applications such as high resilience foam seating and durable elastomeric wheels.

Production Capacity and Timeline

Scheduled to be operational by the first quarter of 2015, the new unit will double Air Liquide's carbon monoxide production capacity in the Antwerp basin. This expansion is crucial for meeting the growing industrial gas needs in the region.

Technological Advancements

The unit will be designed and built by Air Liquide's Engineering and Construction teams, incorporating state-of-the-art technologies to ensure energy efficiency, optimal performance, and safety. This aligns with the company's commitment to supporting the development and competitiveness of European manufacturers.