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Tyler O'Brien | 3 minutes | 06/17/2025

What Is Compressed Nitrogen Used For?

Compressed nitrogen is used in industries for purging pipelines, inflating aircraft and vehicle tires, pressurizing systems, and preserving perishable products. It’s also essential in laboratories for sample preparation and in manufacturing for creating inert atmospheres during chemical processes. In this guide, we’ll explore the major applications of compressed nitrogen across sectors, from food preservation to …

Tyler O'Brien | 7 minutes | 06/16/2025

How to Measure Carbonation in Soda

Carbonation in soda can be measured using several methods, including: In this guide, we’ll explore the most reliable techniques for measuring carbonation levels, from simple DIY approaches to using professional-grade tools popular in the beverage industry. Understanding Carbonation Basics Carbonation is the dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) gas in a beverage that creates the characteristic fizz …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 06/16/2025

How Much Nitrogen Does Corn Need?

Corn requires about one pound of nitrogen for each bushel of expected yield. For example, a field targeting 200 bushels per acre would need approximately 200 pounds of nitrogen per acre (adjusted for soil conditions and environmental factors). In this guide, we’ll explore this reference point in more detail and cover the key aspects of …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 06/12/2025

Is Nitrogen Explosive?

Pure nitrogen gas (N₂) is not explosive. It’s an inert gas that makes up about 78% of Earth’s atmosphere and is valued for its non-reactive properties. Still, certain nitrogen-containing compounds can be highly explosive under specific conditions. In this guide, we’ll explore the nature of nitrogen gas and what makes some nitrogen compounds explosive. You’ll …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 06/12/2025

Why Is Helium So Expensive?

Discover how helium extraction impacts its price and availability. Learn about the complex process and market dynamics affecting this crucial gas.

Nick Vasco | 7 minutes | 06/12/2025

What Is the Best Gas for Welding?

Discover the best gas for welding - Argon/CO2 mix for MIG and pure gases for specialized tasks. Find out how to choose the right gas for your project.

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 06/11/2025

Is Nitrogen Toxic?

Pure nitrogen gas (N₂) is not inherently toxic, but it can be dangerous due to asphyxiation risks and potentially harmful nitrogen-containing compounds that can react with different substances. In this guide, we’ll explore the critical safety considerations for nitrogen in industrial applications. You’ll learn when it becomes hazardous and how proper handling ensures worker safety. …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 06/11/2025

Is Nitrogen Combustible?

Nitrogen is not combustible. As an inert gas, nitrogen neither burns nor supports combustion under normal conditions. This property makes it invaluable for industrial applications that involve preventing fires and explosions. In this guide, we’ll explore why nitrogen doesn’t burn. You’ll also see how its non-combustible nature benefits many industries and discover the safety precautions …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 06/09/2025

Is Nitrogen Dangerous?

Yes, nitrogen can be dangerous – while it’s non-toxic and non-flammable, it presents serious hazards like asphyxiation and pressure-related risks, particularly in industrial settings. In this guide, we’ll explore the key dangers associated with nitrogen. We’ll also cover the key safety protocols to prevent accidents and important considerations for users who handle this common industrial …

Lawrence Haynes | 3 minutes | 06/05/2025

What Is a Carrier Gas?

A carrier gas is an inert gas used to transport sample molecules through analytical instruments, particularly in gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. This mobile phase plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate analysis and reliable results across many industrial applications. In this article, we’ll share everything you need to know about carrier gases, most notably: …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 06/04/2025

What is the Role of Nitrogen in Food Preservation?

Nitrogen helps preserve food by displacing oxygen, which slows down oxidation and microbial growth. In packaging, nitrogen gas prevents spoilage and rancidity in products like chips, nuts, and meats. By reducing moisture and limiting bacterial activity, nitrogen extends shelf life without the use of additives and helps maintain the product’s texture and quality. In this …

Nick Vasco | 5 minutes | 06/04/2025

Is Nitrogen Inert?

Nitrogen (N₂) is inert under normal conditions due to its extremely stable molecular structure and resistance to chemical reactions. However, nitrogen can react under high temperatures or with specific catalysts, especially in industrial or biological processes like ammonia synthesis. This guide will cover: Tip: Check out WestAir’s nitrogen supply services. Is Nitrogen a Noble Gas? …

Tyler O'Brien | 3 minutes | 06/04/2025

Is Nitrous Oxide Flammable?

Nitrous oxide is not technically flammable, but it supports combustion and can be dangerous under certain conditions. This distinction is crucial for industrial and medical professionals who work with this gas regularly. This guide explores nitrous oxide’s properties and how they contribute to combustion under specific circumstances. You’ll then learn how to handle this gas …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 06/03/2025

What Does Nitrogen Do for Beer?

Nitrogen transforms beer by creating a smoother, creamier texture with a cascading effect and longer-lasting head compared to traditional CO2 carbonation. This specialized gas plays a crucial role in both the serving and production processes of various beer styles. Whether you’re a brewer or just a beer enthusiast, this guide will teach you about nitro …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 06/02/2025

Is Xenon Flammable?

Xenon is not flammable. As a noble gas, it has exceptional chemical stability and inertness, which makes it incapable of sustaining or supporting combustion under normal conditions.  In this guide, you’ll learn precisely what makes xenon non-flammable, after which we’ll explore its properties, uses, and safety considerations. Xenon’s Chemical Properties and Flammability Status Xenon belongs …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 05/30/2025

Can You TIG Weld with 75% Argon and 25% CO2? 

You should not TIG weld with 75% Argon and 25% CO2 because CO2 causes arc instability, spatter, and oxidation. TIG welding requires 100% Argon to maintain a stable arc and prevent contamination. Using a CO2 mix will degrade weld quality and damage tungsten electrodes. Below is a detailed analysis of the feasibility of using this …