Argon — an element of the main subgroup of the eighth group of the third period the periodic system of chemical elements D. I. Mendeleev, with atomic number 18. The symbol Ar (lat. Argon). The third most abundant element in the earth’s atmosphere (after nitrogen and oxygen) — 0,93 % by volume. Simple substance argon (CAS-nomer: 7440-37-1) — inert monatomic gas without color, taste and smell.
Obtaining
In industry, argon is produced as a by-product of large scale separation of air into oxygen and nitrogen. At a temperature of -185,9°C argon condenseries, when -189,4 °C — crystalizes.
Application
- in argon lasers
- in incandescent lamps and when filling the interior of the double glazing
- as a protective medium for welding (arc, laser, contact, etc.) of both metals (eg titanium) and non-metals
- as a plasma generator in plasmatrons during welding and cutting
- in the food industry argon is registered as a food supplement E938, as a propellant and packaging gas
- as extinguishing agent in gas fire extinguishing installations
- in medicine during operations for purification of air and cuts, since argon almost does not form chemical compounds
- due to the low thermal conductivity argon is used in diving for blowing dry wetsuits, however, there is a number of disadvantages:
- the high price of gas (you need a separate system for argon)
- there is a risk to mix up a tank of argon and pony-tank (both yellow in colour)
Argon content in high concentrations in the inhaled air can cause dizziness, nausea, vomiting, loss of consciousness and death from asphyxia (as a result of oxygen starvation).
