Oxygen is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that supports life and combustion. All elements, except rare gases, react with oxygen, over a wide range of temperatures, to form oxides. Oxygen is 1.1 times heavier than air and is slightly soluble in water.

Oxygen is present in the atmosphere at a concentration of 20.95%. Oxygen is recovered from air in an Air Separation Unit (ASU) where it is drawn off as a cryogenic liquid at about -183°C. Oxygen can then be distributed as a cryogenic liquid or as a gas in cylinders.

Oxygen is not toxic at atmospheric pressures.

Oxygen deficient atmospheres cause asphyxiation and death.

Oxygen enrichment is just as dangerous and difficult to detect.

Clothing and flammable materials will burn violently if impregnated with oxygen.

Oxygen reacts violently with oil, grease and may spontaneously burn with an explosive force.

It is largely used in the manufacture of steel as well as for cutting and welding of metals

It is used in the synthesis of certain chemicals

It is used in hospitals for breathing

It is used for forming oxide layers in the manufacture of semi conductor devices