A Chemtool Inc plant in Rockford, Illinois exploded and developed a level four fire, classified as “catastrophic” by US authorities due to its explosive nature. The US press reports, according to which the emergency units intervened on the site of the disaster will limit themselves to containing the flames and letting the fire burn out by itself, probably in several days.
According to some witnesses, a first roar was heard at the plant, followed by a second, more violent explosion. The town of Rockton was evacuated, as were the 70 employees of the plant, who fortunately were not directly involved.
In the following hours, further explosions occurred, which injured a firefighter; the column of smoke caused by the fire is visible from Chicago, and within a mile of the fire site, the authorities have urged people to stay indoors and wear masks. The environmental impact of the accident is unclear: Chemtool Incorporated produces grease and other synthetic lubricants, and has been based in Rockton since 2009. In 2013 the company was acquired by Lubizol Corporation, another manufacturer of chemicals for applications. mechanics such as lubricants, fluids and additives for engines. In 2020, the company generated sales of $ 5.6 billion.
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