Application

Argon is used

◇as a carrier gas in sputtering, plasma etching and ion implantations, and as a blanket atmosphere in crystal growth

◇for ICP spectroscopy (Inductively Coupled Plasma spectroscopy)

◇in atomic absorption spectrometry as a blanket gas in the graphite furnace

◇as a shielding gas for arc welding

◇as an insulation gas in high-efficiency multi-pane windows to improve thermal insulation

◇in the iron and steel industry to prevent oxidation of molten metals and alloys and for degassing and desulphurization of molten steel and iron baths

◇to displace oxygen in the top of intravenous drug containers, extending product shelf-life

◇for wine preservation to eliminate air by the heavier argon, to prevent oxidation and extend the product quality for opened bottles and barrels

Process

The most common source of argon is an air separation plant. Air contains approx. 0.93% (vol.) argon. A crude argon stream containing up to 5% oxygen is removed from the main air separation column via a secondary (“side-arm”) column. The crude argon is then further purified to produce the various commercial grades required. Argon may also be recovered from the exhaust stream of certain ammonia plants.

Emergency Measures

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