Agriculture is a critical industry that forms the foundation for many other sectors, such as food and beverage production. These operations rely on industrial gases to power many processes in the field and create the crops and products our economy counts on.
The agriculture industry uses many different gases for various applications.
Propane is a popular fuel source for many types of farming machinery, such as tractors and forklifts. It’s also a power source for boilers and heaters in greenhouses where temperature control is essential. Propane burns cleanly compared to other fuel sources, making it an excellent option for reducing total emissions on a farm.
In agriculture, nitrogen is often used as a pesticide or fertilizer to improve crop yields and the overall quality of a harvest. Nitrogen also offers cryogenic characteristics that make it ideal for cooling and chilling products following a harvest. Agriculture facilities may use nitrogen for immersion freezing as well.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an essential gas in photosynthesis. Farming operations often add CO2 to greenhouses to promote photosynthesis and increase plant growth. This gas also aids in temperature regulation inside greenhouses.
Adding CO2 to compost creates a cooling effect and prevents premature mushroom sprouting. It can also reduce the oxygen in storage solutions to increase the longevity of produce that rots with exposure to oxygen.
Ethylene is a key ingredient in fruit ripening processes. When mixed with nitrogen, a controlled amount of ethylene can speed up fruit ripening without changing the organic characteristics of the crop. Using the process helps facilities save on storage costs as crops are ready to go to market faster.
Agriculture facilities often pump oxygen into greenhouses to support the respiration process in plants. During this natural process, plants take in oxygen to oxidate stored sugars and produce energy and CO2. This CO2 production supports photosynthesis and encourages growth. Aquaculture — fish farms — often aerate with oxygen as the enrichment increases yields.
Hydrogen is an effective engine additive for farm equipment with combustion engines. This practice can reduce energy consumption and make agriculture practices more sustainable.
Meritus Gas Partners is a group of independently operated gas distributors. The Meritus Gas umbrella provides the resources these distributors need to offer quality products. At the same time, our partners can still provide the personal touch and customer service that many businesses expect from their suppliers.
Our partners are located throughout the United States to provide you with essential gases for your agricultural operation. Our partners include:
Each partner has a distinct service area covering specific states and regions. Our distributors fill gas orders on-site for quality control and offer delivery services.
Meritus Gas Partners connects you with a gas distributor, so you have enough nitrogen, propane, CO2 and beyond for your agricultural practices. Find a partner near you to connect with a trusted provider in our network.