Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

Air Liquide and Holcim Partner to Decarbonize Belgian Cement Production

Key highlights
  • The project aims to capture 1.1 million tons of CO₂ annually at Holcim's Obourg plant.
  • Air Liquide will supply oxygen and Cryocap™ OXY technology for CO₂ capture.
  • Captured CO₂ will be transported to Antwerp@C for offshore storage in the North Sea.
  • The initiative supports the EU's 2050 net zero target and Holcim's carbon neutrality goal by decade's end.

Project Overview

Air Liquide and Holcim have signed an agreement to develop a carbon capture solution for Holcim’s cement plant in Obourg, Belgium. The project aims to transform the facility into a near-zero cement production site.

Technology and Process

Air Liquide will provide the necessary oxygen and its Cryocap™ OXY technology to capture CO₂ emissions efficiently. The captured CO₂ will be transported via pipelines to a CO₂ Export Hub, such as Antwerp@C, for offshore storage in the North Sea.

Goals and Impact

The initiative aims to capture 1.1 million tons of CO₂ per year, contributing to Holcim's goal of achieving carbon neutrality in Belgium by the end of the decade. It also supports the European Union's 2050 net zero target.

Future Considerations

The Final Investment Decision (FID) is contingent on forming additional partnerships across the value chain and securing public sector support, including regulatory and derisking mechanisms.