- Air Liquide will invest €80 million in a new hydrogen production unit in Antwerp.
- The unit will start operations in 2020.
- The hydrogen will be used for aniline production, a base chemical for polyurethanes.
- The new unit will reduce CO2 emissions by around 5%.
Investment and New Hydrogen Unit
Air Liquide will invest €80 million in constructing a new hydrogen production unit at Covestro’s production site in Antwerp. This state-of-the-art plant will incorporate Air Liquide's proprietary technology to enhance energy efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of the production process.
Hydrogen Supply and Usage
The hydrogen produced will be supplied to Covestro under a new long-term contract and will also serve other customers in the Antwerp industrial area. The hydrogen will be used in the production of aniline, a base chemical for polyurethanes used in various sectors such as construction, automotive, and home appliances.
Environmental Benefits
The new hydrogen production unit, SMR-X™, will offer increased energy efficiency and a reduced carbon footprint. Compared to conventional SMR, natural gas consumption and CO2 emissions will be reduced by around 5%. Additionally, part of the CO2 generated during the production process will be captured by Covestro and used as a feedstock, contributing to a circular economy model.
Operational Timeline
The new SMR-X™ unit is expected to start operations in 2020. It will enhance the energy efficiency, safety, and reliability of hydrogen production, supporting the development of Covestro’s site in Benelux and strengthening Air Liquide’s hydrogen supply network in the Antwerp industrial area.
