Gases distributor Air Liquide announced Wednesday a long-term supply agreement with Eastman Chemical Co. to provide additional gaseous oxygen, nitrogen and syngas supporting Eastman’s growth and production in Longview, Texas. Air Liquide will invest more than $160 million to modernize existing assets and build a new Air Separation Unit (ASU) and Partial Oxidation Unit (POX).

With this agreement and additional production capacity of the new ASU and POX, Air Liquide will supply Eastman gaseous oxygen and nitrogen, as well as syngas. The new ASU and POX will begin production in late 2021 and will be integrated into the existing facilities.

“This project and supply agreement reflect Eastman’s focus to invest in growth opportunities through strategic partnerships to create positive economic and environmental benefits,” said Mark Costa, Eastman’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Eastman has deep roots in the greater Longview area and remains one of the area’s largest employers after 70 years of operation in Harrison County. We are committed to our community and appreciate the continued support of community leaders, our dedicated employees, and our operating partners.”

Michael J. Graff, Executive Vice President and Executive Committee Member, Air Liquide Group, said: “Air Liquide is pleased to further its longstanding relationship with Eastman with another significant investment at its Longview site in east Texas, the world’s single largest production facility of its type, and to further demonstrate Air Liquide’s ongoing commitment to deliver innovative technologies and safe, reliable and sustainable solutions for industry.”