The Intersection of Energy and Plastics Production: How Advanced Gases from nexAir serve Multiple Sectors

For more than 80 years, nexAir has supplied industrial and specialty gases that power advanced processes across the Southeast. Today, two sectors in particular — energy production and plastics manufacturing — are becoming increasingly prominent. As renewable systems grow and plastic components become more advanced, both industries are relying on precise gas applications to improve efficiency, strengthen material performance, and support cleaner, more reliable technologies.

By delivering the gases and delivery solutions that make these innovations possible, nexAir’s KnowHow helps customers across both sectors Forge Forward with confidence.

Specialty Gases Fueling Renewable Energy Growth

Solar energy manufacturers depend on ultra-precise gas mixtures to strengthen the performance of photovoltaic components. One example is sulfur hexafluoride, a substance valued for its superior insulating characteristics. When used in controlled stages of solar-cell production, this gas helps enhance electrical transmission and improve long-term system stability, supporting greater adoption of clean energy.

Wind-power operators rely on inert gas solutions as well. Nitrogen for instance is used to purge moisture, pressurize internal turbine systems, and protect components from corrosion. These functions extend turbine life, reduce maintenance needs, and maintain consistent energy output even in demanding environments.

Hydrogen energy systems, meanwhile, lean heavily on purity and process control. Hydrogen, nitrogen, and argon are used throughout production, storage, and quality-assurance steps to ensure safe handling and dependable performance. By enabling stable, contamination-free environments, these gases help position hydrogen as a viable, sustainable alternative to traditional fuels.

But it isn’t just the production itself. Energy storage technologies — such as advanced batteries or fuel cells — also depend on our specialty gases. Oxygen, hydrogen, and other controlled atmospheres support the chemical reactions that allow storage systems to capture and release energy efficiently and reliably.

Gases Driving Innovation in Plastics Production

In addition to energy applications, many specialty gases play an essential role in modern plastics manufacturing, as well. While specialty inert gases like nitrogen and carbon dioxide go a long way in molding raw material into finished plastic products, nexAir also provides bespoke gas solutions for more specific processes across both industries. 

Acetylene, for instance, is a highly valuable substance in the plastics industry — often utilized with other chemicals and elements like chlorine and hydrochloric acid to create PVC. Simultaneously, its clean, intense flame supports precision heating and controlled reforming processes, making it valuable for creating advanced plastics and pipelines used in the renewable energy industry. 

Similarly, anhydrous ammonia, which serves as a critical feedstock in the production of certain plastics and resins is exceptionally crucial in the energy sector as well. As the world shifts towards more sustainable energy sources, ammonia has emerged as a compelling candidate for hydrogen production, as well as a clean fuel for power generation, particularly in maritime shipping.  By integrating these gases into their processes, both plastics manufacturers and energy producers can achieve more consistency and efficiency.

Advanced Delivery Systems for Modern Manufacturing

But at the end of the day, how gases are delivered matters as much as the gases themselves. That’s why nexAir goes beyond supplying essential nitrogen, acetylene, argon, ammonia and more, and delivers a system that improves overall decisionmaking and efficiency. All our delivery systems, for instance, feature automated changeovers, real-time flow monitoring, integrated safety controls, and remote diagnostics. Together, these technologies ensure you benefit from an uninterrupted supply, minimal waste, and enhanced safety. The result is higher productivity and more predictable operations across both energy and plastics manufacturing.

References: 

• https://www.nexair.com/learning-center/understanding-acetylenes-impact-in-the-synthesis-of-pvc-plastic/
• https://www.nexair.com/learning-center/surprising-industries-nexair-plays-a-role-in/
• https://www.nexair.com/learning-center/nexairs-role-in-the-evolution-of-industrial-gas-solutions-the-power-of-new-technologies/
• https://www.nexair.com/learning-center/efficient-and-green-specialty-gases-in-modern-energy-production-technologies/
• https://www.nexair.com/learning-center/advanced-gas-technologies-for-chemical-manufacturing-nexairs-solutions/
• https://www.nexair.com/gases/
• https://rmi.org/clean-energy-101-ammonias-role-in-the-energy-transition/
• https://us.anteagroup.com/news-events/blog/the-promise-and-challenges-of-ammonia-in-the-global-energy-transition