Air Products (NYSE: APD), Lehigh Valley, PA, sales increased 11 percent to $2.5 billion in the second quarter ended March 31, 2011. Profit increased 20.8 percent to $304.3 million.

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Second quarter results include a loss of $4.4 million associated with the now expired tender offer for outstanding shares of Airgas, Inc.

Fiscal year to date, sales were $4.9 billion, an increase of 11.4 percent over the year-ago period. Profit increased 13.7 percent to $572.9 million.

Merchant Gases sales of $1 billion increased 10 percent versus the prior year on improved volumes, especially in the Asia region. Operating income of $185 million rose four percent from the prior year with increased volumes being offset by higher operating, maintenance and distribution costs, and lower pricing in our European healthcare business.

Tonnage Gases sales of $799 million increased 6 percent. Volumes were up 10 percent, primarily on improved hydrogen volumes to refining customers. Operating income of $121 million rose 13 percent from the prior year on higher new plant volumes and increased operating efficiencies.

Electronics and Performance Materials sales of $576 million increased 28 percent driven by strong volumes and higher pricing. Operating income of $92 million was up 61 percent on significantly improved volumes.

Equipment and Energy sales of $114 million were down five percent on lower air separation unit sales. Operating income of $23 million increased 24 percent from the prior year on higher LNG activity.

Air Products serves customers in industrial, energy, technology and healthcare markets worldwide with a portfolio of atmospheric gases, process and specialty gases, performance materials, and equipment and services.