Abstract

Oxygen generation from oxygen-containing compounds is used for systems for respiratory support wherever sufficient oxygen from air is unavailable. Use is made in submarines and spacecraft as well as in breathing apparatus. Additionally these systems provide emergency oxygen supplies for aircraft in the case of decompression and for bomb shelters. Materials composition and reactions, system design, and oxygen gas purity are presented.

Discussed herein are systems based on chlorates, perchlorates, peroxides, and superoxides. Whereas alkali metal salts of these anions all produce oxygen, the peroxides and superoxides also provide a mechanism for carbon dioxide absorption. Most commercial production centers around large chlorate candles for use in submarines and use of potassium superoxide in portable breathing apparatus and emergency aircraft oxygen supply.