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 …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 06/20/2025

Does Nitrogen Displace Oxygen?

Yes, nitrogen can displace oxygen in confined spaces and create a potentially dangerous environment lacking adequate oxygen for breathing. This displacement happens because nitrogen gas physically takes up space that would otherwise contain oxygen, reducing oxygen concentration to hazardous levels. In this article, you’ll learn how nitrogen displaces oxygen and which health risks this displacement …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 06/20/2025

Can You Freeze Liquid Nitrogen?

You can freeze liquid nitrogen into a solid state by lowering the pressure in a vacuum chamber or by significantly reducing its temperature below -346°F (-210°C). When liquid nitrogen transitions into solid nitrogen under specific controlled conditions, it can be used for cryogenic applications across industries.  In this guide, we’ll explore the science behind freezing …

Tyler O'Brien | 5 minutes | 06/19/2025

What Is Liquid Nitrogen Used For?

Liquid nitrogen is used in cryogenic applications including medical procedures, food preservation, industrial processes, and scientific research. It has become essential across industries because of its inert properties and ability to rapidly freeze materials.  In this guide, we’ll explore the most common applications of liquid nitrogen in different sectors. You’ll learn why it remains a …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 06/18/2025

Is Hydrogen Gas Flammable?

Hydrogen gas is highly flammable – it has an exceptionally wide flammability range of 4-74% concentration in air, which makes it one of the most combustible industrial gases available. In this guide, we’ll explore hydrogen’s properties that contribute to its flammability. We’ll also explain how its combustion properties compare to other common gases and discuss …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 06/18/2025

Why Is Nitrogen Added to Crops?

Nitrogen is added to crops to enhance plant growth, increase yields, and improve crop quality by supporting vital biological functions like protein synthesis and photosynthesis. Without adequate nitrogen, plants develop stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and significantly reduced harvests. In this guide, we’ll explore the critical roles nitrogen plays in agriculture. You’ll learn how it benefits …

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. WestAir supplies gases for beverage carbonation across California and Arizona. Understanding Carbonation Basics Carbonation is the dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) gas …

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.