European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Air Liquide Invests €100M in Sustainable Gas Supply for Aurubis in Bulgaria and Germany

Key highlights

Investment Overview

Air Liquide is set to invest approximately €100 million to enhance its gas supply to Aurubis AG in Bulgaria and Germany. This investment includes the construction of a new Air Separation Unit (ASU) in Bulgaria and the modernization of four existing units in Germany.

New ASU in Bulgaria

The new ASU in Western Bulgaria will replace older units, increasing the production of oxygen and nitrogen for Aurubis. It will also produce argon for Industrial Merchant markets across Europe. The plant is expected to be operational by 2027 and will consume 7% less electricity than the units it replaces.

Modernization in Germany

In Germany, Air Liquide will revamp four ASUs located on Aurubis premises. These units supply oxygen and nitrogen for copper and other metal production, as well as serving Industrial Merchant and Healthcare markets in Northern Germany. The modernization is scheduled for completion by 2027.

Focus on Sustainability

The collaboration aims to support Aurubis' sustainable copper production, which is crucial for urbanization, emission-free mobility, and digitalization. The project will also explore using renewable energy to power the new ASU in Bulgaria, potentially reducing CO2 emissions significantly.