Oxygen
Oxygen (O₂) is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas that makes up 20.9% of the Earth's atmosphere. It is slightly denser than air and is characterised by its high reactivity as an oxidiser or combustion supporter. Industrially, it is obtained by fractional distillation of liquid air or by adsorption separation processes. Although essential for life, an excess in the air increases the flammability range of materials.
Metalworking and welding:
- Oxy-fuel welding and oxygen cutting.
- Thermal spraying of materials (HVOF).
- Laser cutting.
- Refining of steel and non-ferrous metals.
Chemical industry:
- Oxidation of olefins.
- Synthesis of products such as acetaldehyde, acetic acid and methanol.
Petrochemical industry:
- FCC (Fluid Catalytic Cracking) and SRU (Sulphur Recovery Unit) processes.
Materials manufacturing:
- Melting and cutting in the ceramics and glass industry.
- Pulp production.
Environmental treatment and food:
- Wastewater treatment.
- Oxygenation of fish farms.
Specialised applications:
- Oxygen applications in medicine.
- Oxygen applications in welding.
See the official data sheet produced by Carburos Metalicos with the characteristics and applications of oxygen.