What provides pure O2 for inhaling and canisters to collect CO2
CO2.
You've left me out in the wild; give me something to get my bearings
The question is in reference to o2 canisters attached to space suites during space travel
I believe O2 is generated by the electrolysis of H2O. I don't think it is generated as needed on a space suit but in the space ship, stored in canisters, and the canisters and contents are attached to the space suit with astronaut inside. If they don't wear a space suit while in the ship the cabin has free flowing O2 gas that ultimately comes from H2O.
In early space flights LiOH was used to absorb CO2 but I believe the international space station uses a molecular sieve of zeolite.
The old method worked this way.
2LiOH + CO2 ==> Li2CO3 + H2O
To obtain pure O2 for inhaling and collect CO2, two separate apparatus are generally used:
1. Oxygen Concentrator: An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that generates concentrated oxygen from ambient air. It works by selectively filtering out nitrogen and other gases, leaving behind nearly pure oxygen for inhalation. Oxygen concentrators are often used by people with respiratory conditions or in medical facilities.
To use an oxygen concentrator, follow these steps:
- Place the oxygen concentrator in a well-ventilated area.
- Connect the oxygen delivery system, such as a nasal cannula or oxygen mask, to the concentrator.
- Switch on the concentrator and adjust the flow rate according to the prescribed amount of oxygen required.
Please note that oxygen concentrators are medical devices and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
2. CO2 Canister/Carbon Dioxide Absorption System: Collecting and storing CO2 requires a different approach. CO2 canisters or carbon dioxide absorption systems are used for this purpose. These systems feature materials or substances designed to absorb and capture carbon dioxide from the surrounding air.
To collect and store CO2 using a canister or absorption system, follow these steps:
- Acquire a CO2 canister or a carbon dioxide absorption system.
- Place the canister or absorption system in an area where there is a relatively higher concentration of CO2, such as close to a source of CO2 emissions or in a confined space where CO2 accumulates, like a greenhouse or fermentation chamber.
- The canister or absorption system will passively collect CO2 over time, depending on its capacity and the CO2 concentration in the surrounding environment.
- Periodically check the canister or absorption system to gauge the CO2 levels and ensure it doesn't exceed its limits.
- When the canister or absorption system is full or the desired amount of CO2 has been collected, safely dispose of or store the collected CO2 following proper guidelines.
It's important to note that handling and storing CO2 can be hazardous, and necessary precautions should be taken to minimize risks. If you are unsure or require larger-scale CO2 collection, it is best to consult with professionals knowledgeable in this area.