Description

Oxygen (O2)

Introduction of Oxygen gas

Oxygen (O2) is a gas naturally present in the atmosphere. It makes up almost 21% of the volume of the Earth’s atmosphere. Also named Di-Oxygen (O2), it is indispensable for most life forms on earth, including for many species that live in the aquatic environment: where oxygen is dissolved.

Oxygen is also a colourless, odourless and flavourless gaseous substance at ambient temperature and pressure. When liquefied, it comes in the form of a colourless or blue liquid.

Use Of Oxygen

Dioxygen is currently used in a large number of industries:

  • Medical and hospital sector;
  • Metallurgical;
  • Fuseology;
  • Chemical industry;
  • Wastewater treatment/ purification;
  • Aviation/ automotive/ shipbuilding.

Risks of Oxygen

While Oxygen is not flammable in its pure state, it can sustain (and aggravate) combustion when linked to other elements. When oxygen is not handled properly, it can also lead to Oxygen enrichment or depletion in the ambient atmosphere. These abnormal concentrations present many risks.

The dangers related to Oxygen

For an atmosphere enriched with Oxygen the risks are:

  • Fire
  • Explosion
  • Combustion of other elements

Conversely, when it comes to an Oxygen-depleted atmosphere, the dangers are:

  • Fatigue
  • Anoxia
  • Hypoxia
  • Asphyxiation

In the liquid state, Oxygen can also cause significant burns to the skin and damage several materials.