Activities: combining reinvention and revolution  [ Return towards  Our history  ]

In 1930, increasing numbers of shipyards and the developing railway industry contribute to advances in welding using oxy-acetylene flame torches and gas welding integrated solutions. In 2009, Air Liquide continues to offer varied and innovating welding and cutting solutions to respond to current technological challenges.

1946 marks the debut of the diving activity, when Air Liquide collaborates with Commander Cousteau to invent the first autonomous diving suit with a pressure regulator (CG45). Today, the Group’s subsidiary, Aqualung, is the number one manufacturer of scuba diving equipment.

In the 1950s, Air Liquide becomes a partner in the medical market creating the Healthcare activity, separate from the industrial division. Air Liquide is a major actor in hospital and healthcare.

In 1961, Air Liquide embarks on the space adventure by creating the Research Center for Low Temperature Applications near Grenoble (France). In 1973, the Ariane program is launched, in which Air Liquide has been active from the start by supplying different generations of launchers from Ariane I to Ariane V, still used today.

In 1985, with the electronics market in full development in Asia, and particularly Japan, Air Liquide becomes the key supplier for the semi-conductor industry thanks to its long-standing presence in this region of the world.

In 1995, after oxygen and nitrogen, Air Liquide completes its offer with hydrogen and cogeneration, which produces steam and power. In 2009, Air Liquide launches the H2E program to quickly develop and market the first applications of clean and silent hydrogen energy.

In 2007, Air Liquide enlarged its technological portfolio with the Lurgi acquisition. Lurgi has been integrated to the Engineering & Construction division.

Today, Air Liquide is the world leader in gases for industry, health and the environment and oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen and rare gases are at the core of the Group’s activities.

Discover also the Group’s history through…

• Its shareholders
• Innovation
• A global presence