Air Liquide Expands in Japan with New Air Separation Unit

Air Liquide is set to enhance its presence in Japan by building a large-scale Air Separation Unit (ASU) on Naoshima Island. This significant investment aims to meet the increasing demand for copper, crucial for the energy transition, and will aid in the production expansion of Mitsubishi Materials, Japan's top copper company. The ASU will produce up to 1,400 tons of oxygen daily, along with nitrogen, argon, and neon, supporting key industries like semiconductor manufacturing and construction.

The project will strengthen Air Liquide's long-term partnership with Mitsubishi Materials as they aim to boost copper production for electric vehicles and renewable energy sectors. Scheduled to begin operations in 2027, the ASU will be one of Air Liquide’s largest oxygen production plants in Japan.

Additionally, the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has recognized the project's strategic importance with a financial grant, highlighting its role in securing domestic supply of neon vital for the semiconductor industry.