Air Products

Air Products. It is a global leader in the industrial gases and performance materials sectors, providing essential products and technologies to a diverse range of industries. Founded in the mid-20th century, the company has grown through strategic expansion and technological innovation to serve customers in over 50 countries. Its operations are critical to sectors such as energy, healthcare, electronics, and food processing, making it a vital player in the global supply chain.

History

The company was founded in 1940 by Leonard Pool in Detroit, initially focusing on the production and sale of industrial gases. A pivotal early contract to supply oxygen to Republic Steel facilitated its first major expansion. In 1945, the corporate headquarters were relocated to Allentown, Pennsylvania, which remains its home base. Significant growth occurred in the 1950s with the development of tonnage contracts and the acquisition of Thermice Corporation, marking its entry into the European market. The latter half of the 20th century saw further international expansion into Asia and the Middle East, including major projects in Saudi Arabia and China. Key milestones include the 2002 spin-off of its chemicals business into a separate entity, H.B. Fuller, and the 2016 acquisition of the homecare business of Linde plc.

Products and services

The company's core offerings are divided into several key segments. It is a major producer of atmospheric gases, including oxygen, nitrogen, and argon, which are supplied via pipeline, cylinder, and on-site generation. Its process gases, such as hydrogen, helium, and carbon dioxide, are essential for refining, petrochemical processing, and welding. The performance materials division provides specialty gases and chemicals for the semiconductor industry, including precursors for atomic layer deposition. Furthermore, it supplies equipment and technology for gasification projects, cryogenic air separation, and hydrogen fueling stations, supporting the global energy transition.

Operations and facilities

With a presence spanning the globe, the company operates an extensive network of production plants, distribution facilities, and research centers. Major operational hubs are located in the Americas, Europe, and Asia Pacific. In North America, it runs numerous air separation units and hydrogen plants, particularly along the U.S. Gulf Coast. Internationally, it operates some of the world's largest industrial gas complexes through joint ventures, such as the Jazan Integrated Gasification and Power Company in Saudi Arabia and facilities within the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park. Its engineering, procurement, and construction capabilities are managed through offices worldwide, supporting large-scale project execution.

Corporate affairs

The company is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol APD. Its governance is led by a Board of Directors and an executive team, with Seifi Ghasemi serving as Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. A significant portion of its business is conducted through long-term contracts with major corporations in the energy, steel, and chemicals sectors. The company maintains a strong focus on sustainability, with published goals for reducing its carbon footprint and advancing clean energy initiatives. It is also a participant in global initiatives like the Hydrogen Council.

Technology and innovation

Technological advancement is central to its strategy, with significant investment in research and development. Key innovation areas include carbon capture technologies, blue hydrogen and green hydrogen production methods, and advanced gasification processes that convert feedstocks like petroleum coke into useful products. The company operates major research facilities, including the Corporate Headquarters in Allentown and technology centers in Europe and Asia. It holds numerous patents related to cryogenics, catalysis, and membrane technology. Collaborative projects with entities like the U.S. Department of Energy and academic institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology further its development of next-generation energy solutions.

Category:Chemical companies of the United States Category:Companies based in Pennsylvania Category:1940 establishments in Michigan