Author: Lawrence Haynes

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 05/20/2025

What Is the Role of Helium Gas in Gas Chromatography?

Helium gas acts as a carrier gas in gas chromatography. It transports the sample through the column without reacting with it. Helium’s inert nature and optimal flow characteristics provide fast analysis times and high efficiency, making it a preferred choice for precise separations. In this article, we’ll explore why helium has been the gold standard …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 05/20/2025

What Is Helium Used For?

Helium is used for cooling MRI machines, inflating balloons, pressurizing rocket fuel tanks, and enabling deep-sea diving mixtures. It also serves in semiconductor manufacturing and as a protective gas in arc welding.  In this article, we’ll explore helium’s versatile applications in more detail and explain why it remains essential for many specialized processes. Medical Applications …

Lawrence Haynes | 3 minutes | 05/19/2025

Is Helium Toxic?

Helium is not toxic – it’s an inert gas that doesn’t react with the body. However, inhaling helium in large amounts or from pressurized tanks can displace oxygen and cause asphyxiation.  In this article, we’ll explore helium’s safety profile in more detail. You’ll learn about: Understanding Helium’s Physical Properties and Asphyxiation Risks Helium is an …

Lawrence Haynes | 3 minutes | 05/14/2025

What Is Liquid Argon Used For?

Liquid argon is used extensively in industrial and scientific applications, mainly because of its exceptional cooling properties and inert nature. At an ultra-cold temperature of -185.7°C (-302.3°F), this colorless liquid serves as a crucial component in various high-tech processes. We’ve cherry-picked some of the most common use cases of liquid argon, which we’ll cover in …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 05/09/2025

Why Is Argon Used in Windows?

Argon is used in windows because it significantly improves thermal insulation, reduces heat transfer, and enhances energy efficiency compared to air-filled windows. It creates a superior barrier between window panes that helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while reducing heating and cooling costs. In this article, we’ll discuss the specific properties that make argon the preferred …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 05/09/2025

Is Carbon Dioxide a Greenhouse Gas?

Yes, carbon dioxide (CO₂) is considered a greenhouse gas. In fact, it’s a primary driver of global climate change because of its role in trapping heat in Earth’s atmosphere. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into carbon dioxide’s role as a greenhouse gas. You’ll learn how the use of CO2 affects industrial processes and why …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 05/08/2025

Is All CO2 Food Grade?

No, not all carbon dioxide (CO2) is food grade. CO2 must meet specific purity and quality standards to be considered food grade and safe for consumption in food and beverage applications.  In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between food-grade and industrial CO2, regulatory requirements. You’ll also learn why using the right grade matters …

Lawrence Haynes | 3 minutes | 05/06/2025

Does Argon Gas Go Bad?

No, argon gas does not go bad because it is an inert noble gas that remains chemically stable indefinitely. Still, several factors can affect its usability and performance in industrial settings. In this guide, we’ll explain argon’s indefinite shelf life and other properties that call for careful storage and handling. We’ll also cover some problems …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 04/29/2025

How Does Modified Atmosphere Packaging Protect Foods?

Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) protects foods by replacing the air inside packaging with a controlled mixture of gases that inhibits microbial growth, prevents oxidation, and maintains product freshness for longer periods. The exact mechanism depends on the gases used, with oxygen, nitrogen, and CO2 being the main ones. In this article, we’ll explore how MAP …

Lawrence Haynes | 7 minutes | 04/28/2025

What Is Modified Atmosphere Packaging?

Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) is a food preservation technique that replaces the air inside a package with a carefully controlled mixture of gases to extend shelf life and maintain product quality. It slows spoilage by creating an environment that inhibits microbial growth and oxidation. In this guide, we’ll explore: Learn about how WestAir can supply …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 04/22/2025

How Long Does Compressed Air Last?

Compressed air cans typically last 7-10 years on the shelf when properly stored and offer 300-1000 sprays of usage depending on can size and spray pattern. The exact longevity is affected by many factors, such as: This guide explores the lifespan of compressed air in more detail to explain precisely how long your cans should …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 04/17/2025

Is Compressed Air Dangerous?

Yes, compressed air is dangerous and can cause serious injuries and even death when mishandled. The specific hazards range from physical injuries and internal damage to hearing loss and equipment-related accidents. The risks aren’t always obvious until an accident occurs, so proper awareness and safety protocols are essential. To help you avoid incidents, this guide …