Here Is Information On Cryogenic Gases

By Jason Clark


The term cryogenic is usually used to refer to something that produces or is related to very low temperatures. As such, the term cryogenics refer to gases that have been subjected to very low temperatures to form liquids or solids. The boiling point of these gasses is usually below -150 degrees centigrade. Nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide usually have higher boiling points but are also classified under cryogenic substances. Here are facts regarding Cryogenic gases.

Cryogenic substances occur as gases at room temperature and pressure. The process of liquefying them involves cooling them below room temperature and then subjecting them to high pressure. There are different circumstances under which cryogens become liquids. Nevertheless, there are two characteristics that cut across all cryogens. To begin with, they are extremely cold. Secondly, minute amounts of the liquid evaporate to form huge amounts of gas.

A cryogenic liquid releases very cold vapor or gas. Moisture in the air condenses around it because of the low temperature. Highly visible fog is formed as a result of the vapor produced. If the tanks used to store cryogens are poorly insulated, the air around it condenses to form liquid air mixture.

It can be a very risky job working with cryogens. Good knowledge of all risks associated with these substances is a requirement for all people who work with them. Suitable measures are also required to be employed to avoid injuries and accidents. Workers can use several safety standards that have been created for safety purposes. For workers, it is very important to learn about the standards.

Cryogens exist in three major groups, that is, inert gasses, flammable gasses, and oxygen. Each cryogen has its own unique properties, but they all fall in the three groups named above. Inert gasses do not undergo any form of chemical reaction to any great extent. As such, they do not burn and they do not support combustion. Examples of gases that can be classified under this group are krypton, neon, argon, helium, and nitrogen.

Just as indicated by the name, flammable gasses are normally highly combustible and may ignite in air. Among gasses in this category are methane, hydrogen, and liquefied natural gas. Normally, oxygen is categorized in its own group because it has a high capacity of supporting combustion. Many incombustible materials burn when there is oxygen. That is why oxygen is discussed separately in a discussion about cryogens.

Very importantly, cryogens should be stored carefully given the dangers associated with them. Thermally insulated containers are usually used for storage. Usually, these containers are designed to be able to withstand huge temperature differences. They can also tolerate temperature changes that occur rapidly.

There exist a number of medical conditions that the body may suffer from as a result of getting in contact with cryogens. For example, extremely cold gases are able to burn the skin the same way that heat does. Being exposed to extremely cold substances normally leads to frostbites. This makes the skin to have a waxy-yellow look. Individuals experience a lot of pain when the area that has been in contact with cryogens begins to thaw.




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