liquid nitrogen plant is the largest volume of inorganic chemical sold in the world, due to its diverse applications such as food freezing, biological sample preservation, deflashing and grinding of plastic and rubber, and other temperature-related applications. In terms of end-user industry, the liquid nitrogen market can be segmented into healthcare, food and beverage, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, and rubber and plastic.
Nitrogen is employed mostly in the gaseous form; however, it is commonly stored and transported as a liquid in several types of containers such as Dewar, cryogenic liquid cylinder, and cryogenic storage tank. The type of container depends upon the quantity required by end user. Liquid nitrogen is actually generated or produced at an air separation plant. The process of liquefaction of air, followed by separation of nitrogen takes place by continuous cryogenic distillation.
Food preservation and processing has gained importance in order to supply high quality food to the rising population worldwide. Preservation often includes cooling or freezing of the food product, which enhances its shelf-life. However, major transportation cost and direct contact with liquid nitrogen are some restraints of the liquid helium plant market.