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Lawrence Haynes | 3 minutes | 07/08/2025

Is Krypton Reactive?

Krypton is not reactive under normal conditions due to its complete valence electron shell, which makes it chemically inert like other noble gases. Still, it can react with fluorine under extreme conditions to form compounds such as krypton difluoride (KrF₂). In this guide, we’ll explore the reactivity of krypton in more detail. You’ll learn about …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 07/07/2025

Is CO2 Explosive?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is not chemically explosive or flammable. In fact, it has a flammability rating of zero according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) classification system, and it’s actually used in fire extinguishers exactly because it doesn’t support combustion. Still, this doesn’t make it completely safe. In this guide, we’ll explore CO2’s safety …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 07/04/2025

Medical Air vs Medical Oxygen: What’s the Difference?

The key difference between medical air and medical oxygen is that medical air mimics natural atmospheric air for general respiratory support, while medical oxygen is a highly concentrated form used when patients need extra oxygen for critical care. Below, we will go into detail on the differences between medical air and medical oxygen.  WestAir supplies …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 07/03/2025

How Do You Know If You Have a CO2 Leak?

You can identify a CO2 leak through specialized detection equipment. As CO2 is colorless and odorless, leaks are impossible to detect with human senses alone until concentrations reach dangerous levels. That being said, you can still recognize physical symptoms of exposure and observe environmental changes.  In this guide, we’ll explore the key methods for identifying …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 07/02/2025

4 Interesting Facts about Oxygen

Oxygen is an essential and fascinating gas that plays critical roles in everything from the air we breathe to the steel we build with. This colorless, odorless gas makes up about 21% of our atmosphere and is the foundation for countless industrial and medical applications. In this guide, you’ll see some compelling facts about oxygen …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 07/02/2025

4 Interesting Facts about Helium

Helium is among the most fascinating elements in the periodic table, with properties and applications that span from ancient solar discoveries to cutting-edge medical technology. In this guide, we’ll show you some of the most compelling aspects of helium, from its cosmic abundance to its critical role in modern medical equipment and space exploration. 1. …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 07/02/2025

4 Interesting Facts about Nitrogen

Nitrogen is among the most abundant elements on Earth, making up 78% of our atmosphere. It also serves as a cornerstone for both biological processes and industrial applications. In this guide, we’ll discuss some of the most compelling facts about nitrogen that matter to industrial gas users. 1. Nitrogen Dominates Earth’s Atmosphere Nitrogen gas makes …

Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 07/01/2025

Carbon Dioxide vs. Carbon Monoxide – What’s the Difference?

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) and carbon monoxide (CO) differ in chemical structures, toxicity levels, and environmental impacts. CO₂ consists of one carbon atom bonded to two oxygen atoms and is naturally present in our atmosphere, while CO contains just one carbon and one oxygen atom and is mainly produced through incomplete combustion processes. In this guide, …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 06/27/2025

How Long Do Neon Signs Last?

Neon signs typically last between 8 to 15 years with proper care and maintenance. The specific lifespan depends on factors like quality of materials, environmental conditions, and usage patterns. In this guide, we’ll explain precisely what determines a neon sign’s durability. You’ll also learn how different components age and what businesses can do to maximize …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 06/27/2025

Is Propane Toxic?

Propane is not toxic in small amounts but can be harmful if inhaled in high concentrations. It displaces oxygen, which can lead to dizziness, unconsciousness, or asphyxiation in enclosed spaces. Propane is also flammable and poses an explosion risk if handled improperly. In this guide, we’ll explore the key safety considerations around propane exposure. We’ll …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 06/26/2025

Is Neon a Noble Gas?

Neon is a noble gas – it belongs to Group 18 of the periodic table alongside helium, argon, krypton, xenon, radon, and oganesson. This classification is based on neon’s complete valence electron shell, which gives it remarkable stability and chemical inertness. In this guide, you’ll learn about neon’s properties as a noble gas. We’ll also …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 06/26/2025

What CO₂ Level Is Dangerous?

Carbon dioxide becomes immediately dangerous at 40,000 ppm. Still, cognitive impairment begins at concentrations as low as 1,000 ppm. In this guide, we’ll explore the specific CO₂ thresholds that pose health risks. We’ll also cover: Occupational Safety Standards for CO₂ Exposure OSHA sets the permissible CO₂ exposure limit at 5,000 ppm as an 8-hour time-weighted …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 06/25/2025

Is Neon Toxic?

Neon gas is not toxic. It’s classified as a simple asphyxiant, which means it poses a risk only when it displaces oxygen in confined spaces. In this guide, we’ll explore neon’s safety profile. You’ll learn about its potential hazards in industrial settings and proper handling procedures to ensure safe use of this gas. Understanding Neon’s …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 06/24/2025

Is Neon Flammable?

Neon is not flammable – it’s a noble gas with a complete outer electron shell, so it’s chemically inert and doesn’t support combustion under normal conditions. In this guide, we’ll explore neon’s properties to explain why it doesn’t burn. We’ll also discuss important safety considerations for those working with this gas in industrial settings. The …

Lawrence Haynes | 6 minutes | 06/24/2025

What Is a CO₂ Monitor and Why Monitor CO₂ Levels?

A CO₂ monitor is a device that measures carbon dioxide concentrations in the air using advanced sensor technologies like non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) detection. These instruments have become essential for maintaining indoor air quality, ensuring workplace safety, and optimizing energy efficiency in industrial and commercial processes. To show you everything you need to know about CO₂ …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 06/23/2025

What is Neon Used For?

Neon is used in advertising signs, high-voltage indicators, vacuum tubes, lightning arresters, and cryogenic refrigeration. Its distinct red-orange glow makes it ideal for visual displays. Neon is also used in plasma tubes and as a coolant in certain advanced applications due to its low boiling point. In this guide, we’ll explore why this noble gas …