FA

Oxygen

O₂CAS Number 7782-44-7 UN1073 (refrigerated liquid)

Oxygen

O₂|CAS Number 7782-44-7|UN1073(refrigerated liquid)

Liquid volume

Calculating the volume or mass of a given amount of liquid

At the boiling point (1atm | 90.19k) Equal to: -182.96 C° || -297.33 F°

Liquid phase

The phase diagram of a molecule shows the transition between solid, liquid, and gas phases as a function of temperature and pressure.

Solid phase Liquid phase Vapor phase Critical point Triple point

Molar mass: 17.030 g/mol
Percentage of presence in dry air/

Critical point Temperature: 132.50 °C Pressure:
112.8 bar
Density:
235.00 kg/m³

Triple point Temperature: -77.66 °C
Pressure:
6.1111E-2 bar

-182.96 °C Boiling point

213.05 kJ/kg Latent heat of vaporization (at boiling point)

1141.2 kg/m³ Liquid density (at boiling point)

Aerospace Industry:

Liquid oxygen is one of the primary oxidizers used in rocket engines. When combined with liquid fuels such as liquid hydrogen or kerosene, it produces an intense combustion reaction that generates the thrust needed to launch rockets into space.

Steel Manufacturing:

In steel production, liquid oxygen plays a critical role in oxidizing and removing impurities from molten iron. Its use significantly increases furnace temperatures, improving the quality and efficiency of steel manufacturing processes.

Chemical Industry:

Liquid oxygen serves as a key raw material in the production of various chemicals such as ethylene oxide, nitric acid, and hydrogen peroxide. These compounds are widely used in the manufacturing of plastics, fertilizers, and cleaning agents.

Medical Applications:

While gaseous oxygen is commonly used in medical settings, liquid oxygen is favored for large-scale oxygen supply in hospitals and healthcare facilities due to its high storage efficiency. It is stored in cryogenic tanks and converted to gas when needed for patient care.

Metal Cutting & Welding:

When combined with fuels like acetylene or propane, liquid oxygen creates high-temperature flames suitable for cutting and welding heavy metals. This makes it an essential component in industrial fabrication and repair operations.

Mining & Construction:

Liquid oxygen is also utilized as part of explosive mixtures in controlled blasting operations in mining and large-scale construction projects. Its use enhances both the effectiveness and safety of such operations.

GHS03

Oxidising

GHS04

Gas under pressure

Vital Safety:

• Contact with Skin and Eyes: Liquid oxygen has an extremely low temperature of around -183°C (-297°F). Direct contact may cause severe frostbite and serious eye injuries. When handling LOX, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used, including cryogenic gloves, face shields or safety goggles, and protective clothing.

• Fire and Explosion Hazard: LOX is a powerful oxidizer that dramatically increases the flammability of combustible materials. Contact with flammable substances such as oils, greases, organic matter, and fuels must be strictly avoided. Even dust or fabric fibers can ignite in the presence of LOX. Never use containers or tools contaminated with grease or oil near LOX.

• Pressure and Vaporization: As LOX rapidly vaporizes, its volume expands approximately 860 times. Storage vessels must be pressure-rated and equipped with proper pressure relief systems to handle this expansion. Sealed containers of LOX must never be left unattended, as excessive pressure buildup may lead to explosive rupture.

• Compatible and Incompatible Materials: Only compatible materials should be used in equipment and containers. Metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, and copper are generally safe for use with LOX. In contrast, some plastics, rubbers, and other materials can become brittle or chemically reactive at cryogenic temperatures and must be avoided.

• Proper Ventilation: LOX should always be handled in well-ventilated areas to prevent the accumulation of oxygen vapor, which could increase the risk of fire and combustion in confined spaces.

Safe Operating Procedures:

• Personnel Training: All personnel involved in the handling of LOX must receive comprehensive training on its hazards and safety protocols.

• Proper Equipment Use: Containers and equipment should be specifically designed for LOX, including necessary safety mechanisms such as relief valves and insulation systems.

• Transport and Transfer: Only approved hoses and fittings rated for LOX service should be used. Avoid shocks, impacts, or vibrations during transfer operations.

• Storage Conditions: Store LOX in cryogenic vacuum-insulated containers placed in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas, far from flammable materials and heat sources.

• Leak Management: In case of a leak, evacuate the area immediately, identify the source, and eliminate it if safely possible. Prevent any ignition sources from entering the vicinity.

• First Aid Response: In the event of skin or eye exposure to LOX, rinse the affected area thoroughly with large amounts of water and seek immediate medical attention.