The world leader in hydrazine chemistry, Arkema has invested nearly € 10 M in its Lannemezan industrial facility (France) where the world’s largest hydrazine hydrate plant operates an efficient and environmentally sound process.

As part of its total capital expenditure plan, Arkema, the world leader in hydrazine hydrate and derivatives, recently boosted the production of azoic initiators at its Lannemezan industrial site (France / Hautes-Pyrénées), by increasing AIBN (azobis isobutyronitrile) production capacity and optimizing its manufacturing process.

" Investments in hydrazine hydrate derivatives – azoic initiators this time following triazoles in 2007 – at the Lannemezan site clearly position Arkema as the unmistakable leader in this sector. We have the capacity to serve global customers in agrochemicals, synthesis and polymer processing markets ", Xavier Durand-Delacre, Managing Director of Arkema’s  Hydrogen Peroxide Business Unit, is pleased to announce.

With its technical expertise and the high standards of its industrial plant, in a closely integrated chain from hydrogen peroxide to hydrazine derivatives, Arkema affirms its world leading ranking in hydrazine chemistry.

Hydrazine hydrate is used in particular as a synthesis intermediate in agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals, as well as to treat boiler water and purify precious metals. Triazoles and azoic initiators (AIBN) are hydrazine hydrate derivatives. Triazoles are used as intermediates in the synthesis of active principles in agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals. Azoic initiators are used to manufacture polymers for a variety of applications, including flocculants, synthetic glass, coatings, acrylic fibers, and PVC foam.

A global chemical company and France’s leading chemicals producer, Arkema consists of three strategically related businesses: Vinyl Products, Industrial Chemicals, and Performance Products. Arkema reports sales of 5.7 billion euros. Arkema has 15,200 employees in over 40 countries and six research centers located in France, the United States and Japan. With internationally recognized brands, Arkema holds leadership positions in its principal markets.