Useful Information Regarding 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.

At room temperature and pressure, these substances usually exist in gaseous form. They must be cooled below room temperature before they can be subjected to increased pressure so as to liquefy them. Cryogens usually turn into liquids under different conditions. However, all cryogens have two properties in common. First, they are extremely cold and secondly, small amounts of liquid turn into huge amount of gas when it evaporates.

The released gas or vapor is normally extremely cold. The moisture around the gas is condensed by the low temperatures. As such, this leads to visible mist being formed. Should cryogens be stored in poorly insulated tanks, they cause condensation of the surrounding air, forming a liquid mixture of air.

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.

Given the dangers that are associated with cryogens, it is important that they are stored carefully. Storage is usually done in thermally insulated containers. The containers used are usually designed in a way that they can withstand extreme temperature differences. They can also withstand rapid changes in temperature.

There are several medical effects that cryogens can cause to the body. For instance, very cold gasses can cause burns on the skin which are similar to burns caused by heat. Exposure to extremely cold materials usually causes frostbites that cause the skin to appear waxy yellow in color. When tissues in the area of contact start to thaw, one experiences intense pain.




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