Oxygen detection

Oxygen is a chemical element and is designated by the letter O (derived from the Greek word oxygenium). It is the second most common element on earth after iron. As the gas always occurs in a compound of two atoms under normal ambient conditions, the molecular formula is O₂. Another form of oxygen is ozone, consisting of three atoms O₃. Ozone is extremely toxic and very corrosive. Thankfully, it is virtually non-existent in the lower atmosphere. In the stratosphere, however, it protects the earth from overly intense UV radiation.

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No life without oxygen

Our atmosphere near the earth consists of 20.9 % oxygen, 78.1 % nitrogen and traces of noble gases, CO₂ etc. Animals and plants can only live in this atmosphere, although they produce more oxygen through photosynthesis than they absorb. Humans and animals absorb oxygen from the air through respiration. Only in aquatic animals does it come from oxygen dissolved in water through the gills. In very high concentrations, however, the gas is toxic to most organisms.

The most important properties of oxygen

Oxygen is colourless and odourless and has an oxidising effect. It is required for all types of combustion processes. Pure oxygen can even trigger spontaneous combustion of flammable materials.

Why measure oxygen?

Oxygen measurement is essential in all areas where there could be a lack of oxygen: Silos, tanks, containers etc. But also where oxygen could be displaced by other gases due to chemical or decomposition processes: Shafts, channels, bioreactors, or where oxygen could be depleted by flowing water: Underground channels, streams, rainwater catchment basins, for example. Oxygen measurement is of course also necessary where the limit values may be exceeded: Pure oxygen is produced industrially for technical or chemical processes. A precise oxygen measuring device warns in good time if the limit values are no longer complied with.

Compur measuring devices for measuring oxygen

An O₂ meter from Compur, for example Micro 5, Microclip, Statox 501, Statox 505 or Statox 503, works reliably and accurately in any situation and can often be used for other gases as well. Calibration is simple and can be carried out by the user. Measuring oxygen with Compur is a sure thing.