Oxygen Enriched Atmosphere

Oxygen enriched atmosphere is an environment where the concentration of oxygen is higher than the normal levels found in Earth's atmosphere.  The Earth's atmosphere typically contains about 21% oxygen, 78% nitrogen, and trace amounts of other gases.  Oxygen enriched atmosphere means an atmosphere containing more than 23.5 percent oxygen by volume.

Oxygen Enriched Atmosphere Examples

In certain industrial or medical settings, an oxygen enriched atmosphere may be intentionally created for specific purposes.

Medical Use  -  In medical environments, supplemental oxygen may be provided to patients with respiratory issues or breathing difficulties.  This can help improve oxygen levels in their blood and alleviate symptoms.
Industrial Applications  -  Some industrial processes, such as metal cutting, welding, and glass blowing, may require higher oxygen concentrations to support combustion or chemical reactions. In these cases, oxygen cylinders or concentrators are used to create an oxygen-enriched environment.
Research and Laboratories  -  Certain scientific experiments or research activities may require controlled atmospheres with higher oxygen concentrations.  Laboratories and research facilities may use specialized equipment to adjust the oxygen levels according to their experimental needs.

It's important to note that an oxygen enriched atmosphere can pose safety risks, as high concentrations of oxygen increase the flammability of materials.  In certain conditions, the presence of elevated oxygen levels can lead to a higher risk of combustion or fire.  Therefore, precautions and safety measures are essential when working with or in an oxygen enriched environment.

In everyday living, however, maintaining the natural balance of oxygen in the air is crucial for the well being of living organisms, and deviations from the normal atmospheric composition can have adverse effects.