KING OF PRUSSIA, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Around 5:05 p.m. (CDT), representatives of the Harris County Emergency Operation Center observed multiple dark plumes of smoke coming from the Arkema Inc. plant in Crosby, Texas. Shortly thereafter, fire was observed at the plant.
Local officials continue to maintain a 1.5 miles evacuation perimeter around our plant, based on their assessment of the situation.
Today’s incident at our site occurred as a result of extremely high water and power loss at our site in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. The resulting loss of redundant refrigeration systems created concerns for some of our organic peroxides products, which can burn if not stored at low temperature.
We continue to work closely with public officials to manage the implications of this situation, and have communicated with the public the potential for product to explode and cause an intense fire. Organic peroxides are extremely flammable and, as agreed with public officials, the best course of action is to let the fire burn itself out.
We will likely see additional incidents. Please do not return to the area within the evacuation zone until local emergency response authorities announce it is safe to do so.
Organic peroxides are a family of compounds that are used in a wide range of applications, such as making pharmaceuticals and construction materials.
A designer of materials and innovative solutions, Arkema shapes materials and creates new uses that accelerate customer performance. Our balanced business portfolio spans high-performance materials, industrial specialties and coating solutions. Our globally recognized brands are ranked among the leaders in the markets we serve. Reporting annual sales of €7.5 billion in 2016, we employ approximately 20,000 people worldwide and operate in close to 50 countries. We are committed to active engagement with all our stakeholders. Our research centers in North America, France and Asia concentrate on advances in bio-based products, new energies, water management, electronic solutions, lightweight materials and design, home efficiency and insulation. www.arkema.com