What is the purpose of Molecular Sieves in oxygen preparation?

The purpose of molecular sieves in oxygen preparation is primarily to absorb nitrogen. Molecular sieves are materials with very small and uniform pores that can selectively trap certain molecules based on their size and shape. In oxygen generation processes, they effectively remove nitrogen from the air, allowing the concentration of oxygen to be increased.

By targeting nitrogen, which is the most abundant component of air, molecular sieves enable the extraction of a higher purity level of oxygen. This selective absorption takes advantage of the differing sizes of oxygen and nitrogen molecules, making molecular sieves an essential component in both industrial applications and medical oxygen production processes. This is crucial for ensuring that the oxygen provided for therapeutic use is of the appropriate purity and concentration for patient needs.