The term "cryogenic" refers to very low temperatures, typically below -150°C. Cryogenic technology is used for the storage and transportation of various gases, including oxygen. The oxygen contained in the Earth's atmosphere is predominantly in a gaseous state. To obtain pure oxygen, it needs to be separated from other gases in the air, such as nitrogen and argon. This can be achieved through a process known as "cryogenic distillation," which involves cooling air to extremely low temperatures to separate its components based on their boiling points.
Once separated, the oxygen is stored in liquid form in cryogenic containers, which can maintain its extremely low temperature. Liquid oxygen takes up less space than gaseous oxygen, making it easier to transport and store in large quantities. The containers used for storing liquid oxygen are specially designed to prevent the evaporation of the liquid due to its low boiling point. They are also built to withstand the high pressure that builds up as the liquid oxygen warms up and turns into gas.
Cryogenic containers are essential for the supply of medical oxygen, which is used in hospitals to treat patients suffering from respiratory problems. Medical oxygen is delivered to the patients in gaseous form through masks or other respiratory devices. In the present COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for medical oxygen has skyrocketed as the disease affects the respiratory system of patients. Hospitals have been struggling to meet the demand, leading to a surge in prices and a steep rise in the number of deaths due to oxygen shortage.
The Indian Air Force's recent move to bring in cryogenic containers from Singapore is a significant step in addressing the oxygen crisis in the country. The four containers, with a total capacity of 80 metric tonnes, are expected to boost India's oxygen supply by a considerable margin. However, more needs to be done to ensure a steady and reliable supply of medical oxygen to hospitals across the country.
Apart from bringing in cryogenic containers, there are other ways to increase oxygen supply. One solution is to ramp up the production of oxygen at industrial plants and convert them into oxygen production centers. Some industries, such as steel and chemical plants, already produce large quantities of oxygen as a by-product, which can be harnessed for medical use. The Indian government has announced plans to set up such oxygen production centers across the country.
Another approach is to improve the distribution network for oxygen. There have been reports of oxygen being available in some areas but not reaching hospitals due to logistical issues. Better coordination and planning are needed to ensure that oxygen is transported efficiently to areas where it is needed the most. The use of technology, such as GPS-enabled trucks, can help in tracking the movement of oxygen containers and ensuring timely delivery.
In conclusion, cryogenic technology plays a crucial role in the storage and transportation of medical oxygen. The recent acquisition of cryogenic containers by the Indian Air Force is a timely move to address the oxygen crisis in the country. However, sustained efforts are needed to ensure that the supply of medical oxygen remains steady and sufficient. Separating oxygen from liquid air through cryogenic distillation is an essential step in meeting the rising demand for medical oxygen worldwide. By adopting innovative solutions and collaborative efforts, we can overcome the oxygen crisis and safeguard the health of millions of people affected by COVID-19.