MEDIA ADVISORY
Update on Nitrogen Oxide (NOₓ) Release at Austin Powder’s Red Diamond Plant
Contact: Brad Kostka, 216-902-3800, info@roopco.com

Austin Powder’s Red Diamond Plant Resumes Normal Operations

McArthur, Ohio – Austin Powder has resumed normal operations at its Red Diamond Plant following the safe containment and full assessment of the controlled venting of nitrogen oxide (NOₓ) that occurred on June 11, 2025.

This decision comes after days of air, water, and site safety testing confirmed there are no health hazards to the surrounding community. Full regulatory clearance has been secured to resume normal operations.

Incident Recap

On the morning of June 11, a partially filled nitric acid storage tank at the Red Diamond Plant experienced an unanticipated chemical reaction that generated nitrogen oxide gas inside the tank. To relieve internal pressure and prevent a more serious incident, the gas was vented in a controlled manner through the plant’s built-in safety systems. At no point did nitric acid leak or escape. The chemical remained fully contained within the tank.

Response and Safety Measures

• Emergency protocols were immediately activated upon detection of the gas release.
• The Ohio EPA and local first responders were notified and Austin Powder personnel coordinated closely with them throughout the response.
• Out of an abundance of caution, residents of nearby Zaleski were asked to evacuate.
• Air monitoring by local fire and hazmat teams showed NOₓ levels at the property boundary were well below health-hazard thresholds. Community field screenings found no detectable levels of NOₓ.
• Surface water testing by the Ohio EPA showed pH levels within the normal range. Authorities also confirmed private water wells are safe.
• Austin Powder has engaged third-party environmental experts to conduct additional testing and validate safety conditions.

Current Status

• The NOₓ release has been fully contained.
• Employees are back on site, and normal plant operations have resumed.

Ongoing Commitment

Austin Powder has launched a thorough internal investigation and will implement any necessary improvements to ensure this does not happen again. The health and safety of our employees, neighbors, and environment remains our top priority.

If community members incurred personal expenses due to the evacuation—such as hotel stays, gasoline, or other reasonable costs—contact Austin Powder at 216-839-5469 or claims@austinpowder.com to submit a claim for reimbursement.

Statement from Austin Powder

“We sincerely apologize for the disruption and concern this incident caused our neighbors and the surrounding community. Our safety systems worked as designed, and our team—many of whom are your friends, family members, and neighbors—responded swiftly to protect the community. We deeply appreciate the cooperation of local emergency personnel and the understanding of our neighbors. We remain committed to transparency, safety, and earning your continued trust,” said Austin Powder President and CEO John Rathbun.

See the video message from John Rathbun to the community at This Link.

About Austin Powder
Founded in 1833, Austin Powder is a global leader in the manufacture, distribution, and application of industrial explosives and engineered solutions for the quarrying, mining, construction, and oil and gas industries. With more than 4,800 employees in 27 countries, Austin Powder is dedicated to safety, innovation, and environmental stewardship.