Skip to content
Home Blog

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 08/21/2025

Is Dry Ice Dangerous?

Yes, dry ice is dangerous and poses several risks, including: With temperatures of -109°F (-78.5°C), dry ice can cause immediate tissue damage upon contact while releasing CO₂ gas that displaces oxygen in enclosed spaces. In this guide, we’ll explore the main hazards of dry ice and examine real-world incidents that highlight these dangers. We’ll also …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 08/20/2025

Is Xenon a Noble Gas?

Yes, xenon is a noble gas belonging to Group 18 of the periodic table, alongside helium, neon, argon, krypton, and radon. This classification is not merely academic – it has significant implications for industrial applications, medical uses, and specialized technologies where xenon’s unique properties are highly beneficial. In this guide, you’ll learn: The Noble Gas …

Lawrence Haynes | 6 minutes | 08/19/2025

How Is CO₂ Used in Cell Culture?

CO₂ is used for maintaining pH balance in cell culture media through the CO₂-bicarbonate buffer system, which keeps cells viable and healthy. This controlled environment also regulates temperature and humidity while supporting proper cellular metabolism. In this guide, we’ll explore the critical biochemical mechanisms behind CO₂ use in cell culture. We’ll also discuss optimal concentration …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 08/19/2025

Why Are Noble Gases Unreactive?

Noble gases are unreactive because their outer electron shells are completely filled, making them chemically stable. This full valence shell prevents them from forming bonds with other atoms.  In this guide, we’ll explore the fundamental reasons behind noble gas stability. We’ll examine the energy barriers that prevent reactions and discuss why some heavier noble gases …

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. WestAir supplies nitrogen across California and Arizona. 1. Nitrogen Dominates …

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. Also, propane is 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. WestAir supplies neon across …

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. WestAir …

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 …