Air Liquide Collabs with Aurubis to Supply Clean Gas in Germany and Bulgaria

Air Liquide is set to invest approximately 100 million euros to support Aurubis AG, a major global provider of non-ferrous metals and one of the largest copper recyclers, with projects in Bulgaria and GermanyThe investment will facilitate the construction of a new Air Separation Unit (ASU) in Bulgaria and the modernization of four existing ASUs in Germany. The new and upgraded facilities will supply large volumes of oxygen and nitrogen essential for Aurubis' growing copper and metals production, while also enhancing the Industrial Merchant markets in both regions. Copper is increasingly vital for the energy transition, supporting urbanization, emission-free mobility, and digitalization, and is critical for connecting renewable energy sources like wind and solar farms to power grids. Recycling a significant portion of copper enhances its carbon and energy efficiency, aligning with circular economy principles.

The new Air Separation Unit (ASU) located in Western Bulgaria will replace older units, significantly increasing the production of oxygen and nitrogen for Aurubis, a long-standing partner. Additionally, it will generate argon for the Industrial Merchant markets across Europe. Scheduled to commence operations in 2027, this advanced ASU is designed to consume 7% less electricity compared to its predecessors. Aurubis and Air Liquide plan to incorporate renewable energy sources for part of the plant’s operations, which could substantially reduce annual CO2 emissions and enhance the sustainability of the facility.

In Germany, Air Liquide will undertake a comprehensive revamp of four existing Air Separation Units (ASUs) located on Aurubis premises. These ASUs are crucial for supplying oxygen and nitrogen essential for copper and precious metal production at Aurubis, as well as serving the Industrial Merchant and Healthcare markets in Northern Germany. The revamping project, planned to be completed by 2027, will be carried out in close coordination with customer requirements to ensure a seamless transition. This upgrade will maintain the reliable supply of industrial gases, supporting ongoing operations and market demands.

Emilie Mouren-Renouard, a member of Air Liquide’s Executive Committee and CEO of Europe Industries, expressed her enthusiasm about the renewed partnership with Aurubis, a leading copper industry player in Europe. She highlighted that Air Liquide, which has been collaborating with Aurubis for over 25 years, will continue to support their growth and industrial activities in the region. Mouren-Renouard praised the Air Liquide team for their dedication to ensuring a safe and reliable supply of industrial gases, which has solidified the trust and renewal of contracts with Aurubis. She emphasized that Air Liquide’s contribution is vital for the advancement of an industry pivotal to energy transition and innovation.

Ulf Gehrckens, Aurubis’ Executive Vice President of Corporate Energy & Climate Affairs, highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability and climate neutrality. He noted that Aurubis already produces metals with a footprint significantly below the global average and is investing heavily in initiatives such as preparing processes for hydrogen use and utilizing process heat for district heating near their Hamburg site. Gehrckens emphasized that the long-term partnership with Air Liquide is crucial not only for ensuring a steady supply of industrial gases essential for their production but also for collaborating on process optimization to further enhance their CO2 footprint reduction efforts.