Union Carbide
History
Union Carbide Corporation is an American chemical corporation that was established in 1917. The company was created through the merger of several smaller chemical companies, including the Electro Metallurgical Company, the National Carbon Company, and the Union Carbide Company. The corporation was initially involved in the production of calcium carbide, which was used for the production of acetylene gas. This gas was used for lighting and welding purposes.
Over the years, Union Carbide expanded its operations and began producing a wide range of chemicals and plastics. The company played a significant role in the development of the American chemical industry and was one of the pioneers in the production of polyethylene, a type of plastic that is widely used today.
Major Products and Innovations
Union Carbide has been responsible for numerous innovations in the chemical industry. The company was one of the first to develop and produce ethylene glycol, a chemical compound that is used in the production of antifreeze and polyester. Union Carbide also played a significant role in the development of the process for producing ethylene oxide, a key ingredient in the production of detergents, solvents, and plastics.
In the 1950s, Union Carbide developed a new process for producing polyethylene that was more efficient and cost-effective than previous methods. This innovation helped to make polyethylene one of the most widely used plastics in the world.
Environmental and Safety Issues
Like many chemical companies, Union Carbide has faced criticism and legal action over environmental and safety issues. The company has been involved in several major industrial accidents, including the Bhopal disaster in 1984, which is considered one of the world's worst industrial disasters.
Union Carbide has also faced legal action over contamination issues. In the 1980s, the company was sued by residents of Love Canal, a neighborhood in Niagara Falls, New York, who claimed that the company's disposal of chemical waste had caused health problems and property damage.
Current Status and Ownership
In 2001, Union Carbide was acquired by Dow Chemical Company, one of the world's largest chemical companies. Since the acquisition, Union Carbide has operated as a subsidiary of Dow Chemical.