Argon

Argon is nonflammable, denser than air, and exhibits virtually no chemical reactivity. Through an extensive network of large-scale air separation units in China, Messer produces argon to meet the varied demands of industrial applications requiring controlled protective atmospheres. Based on specific customer requirements, Messer offers both gaseous and liquid argon of various purity levels, delivered in a wide range of packaging formats and sizes —including cylinders, dewars, and mini tanks—as well as bulk deliveries. Most commercially argon serves as shielding gas for arc welding and as a blanketing gas in metallurgy—for example, in the production of steel, pure silicon, or titanium. In the field of additive manufacturing (3D printing), argon ensures an inert atmosphere during powder melting and solidification. In the semiconductor industry, argon, as a carrier gas, plays a vital role in key processes such as plasma etching, ion implantation, and thin-film deposition. Beyond industrial manufacturing, argon also finds applications in daily-use and safety technologies. It is commonly used as filling gas for light bulbs and as lighting gas for gas discharge lamps. In fire protection, argon serves as a solvent in automatic fire extinguisher systems and, when combined with helium, helps airbags deploy instantly during emergencies. Argon‘s low thermal conductivity also makes it a good choice as a filling gas for the interstitial space in double glazed windows.