Liquid Argon
Liquid Argon
Liquid Argon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless and nontoxic gas. Argon belongs to the family of rare gases. Tasteless and extremely cold Argon forms no known chemical compounds. The gas is 1.38 times heavier than air and is slightly soluble in water.
Argon is present in the atmosphere at a concentration of 0.93%. Argon is recovered from air in an Air Separation Unit (ASU) where it is drawn off as a cryogenic liquid at about -303°F. Argon can then be distributed as a cryogenic liquid or as a gas in cylinders.
-
Safety Informations:
Argon is an inert gas that causes oxygen depletion leading to asphyxiation and death. The danger is exacerbated by the fact that argon’s density is greater than air. This allows it to flow downwards and collect in low lying areas far from the point of leakage.
Argon is not consumed in any process and might, therefore, be present in high concentration in exhaust streams. Argon used in electric welding operations can fill the tanks and vessels being constructed and lead to asphyxiation hazards. In its liquid form argon represents a frostbite hazard.
