This Candle Produces Oxygen on Submarines by Burning at 600°C/1,112°F
This specialized candle produces oxygen by burning iron and sodium chlorate at about 600°C (1,112°F), generating oxygen to maintain breathable air on submarines. The chemical process unlocks oxygen molecules vital for crew survival in closed environments.
Composition and Chemical Reaction
The candle contains two critical materials:
- Iron: acts as a burning agent.
- Sodium chlorate: source of oxygen.
When the candle burns, iron oxidizes to form iron oxide. This reaction causes the sodium chlorate to decompose, releasing oxygen gas. The produced oxygen diffuses into the submarine’s atmosphere to replenish breathable air.
Efficiency of Oxygen Production
These oxygen candles are highly efficient.
- They store oxygen with higher mass per unit volume compared to compressed oxygen tanks.
- Up to 94% of the oxygen chemically bound in sodium chlorate is released during burning.
Such efficiency makes these candles a compact, effective oxygen source on submarines.
Operating Conditions and Risks
Burning occurs at a high temperature of 600°C (1,112°F). This presents significant risks, especially in confined submarine environments.
- High temperature flames can ignite other materials inadvertently.
- Several fires and explosions have resulted from these candles, some causing fatalities.
Safety protocols and careful handling are critical when using these oxygen candles.
Applications Beyond Submarines
This oxygen generation technology extends to space missions, including:
- International Space Station (ISS)
- Mir space station
- Space shuttles
Notably, a candle fire onboard Mir produced heavy smoke for 14 minutes, emphasizing safety challenges in closed habitats.
Further Resources
Videos provide detailed insights into submarine oxygen generation using these candles, including a military nuclear submarine demonstration:
Key Takeaways
- Candles burn iron and sodium chlorate at 600°C, releasing oxygen.
- They provide highly efficient oxygen storage and release.
- High-temperature burning poses fire and explosion risks.
- Also used in space stations where fire hazards are serious.
- Proper handling and safety measures are essential.
How does the candle produce oxygen while burning on submarines?
The candle is made of iron and sodium chlorate. When the iron burns at 600°C, it forms iron oxide. This reaction releases oxygen from the sodium chlorate, adding oxygen to the submarine’s atmosphere.
Why is this oxygen candle considered more efficient than compressed oxygen tanks?
The candle stores oxygen more densely by mass per volume than compressed oxygen. It can release up to 94% of the oxygen chemically bound in sodium chlorate, making it an efficient oxygen source.
What are the risks of burning this candle inside a submarine?
Burning the candle at 600°C is dangerous. High temperatures can trigger fires or explosions. Several accidents aboard submarines have been fatal due to this hazard.
Are these oxygen-producing candles used outside of submarines?
Yes, they’re used in space vehicles like the ISS, Mir, and Space Shuttles. However, there have been incidents, such as a candle fire on Mir that caused heavy smoke for 14 minutes.
Where can I find more detailed information about these oxygen candles on submarines?
There are videos explaining their use, including one by Smarter Every Day. These cover how the candles work in military nuclear submarines and are very informative.
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