IIT-B’s tech-hack could end ‘oxygen crisis’

The Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-B) has come up with a creative and ingenious solution to addressing the shortage of medical oxygen for the treatment of COVID-19 patients in the country. The pilot project which has been tested successfully, relies on a simple technological hack- conversion of PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) Nitrogen Unit to PSA Oxygen Unit. Initial tests done at IIT Bombay have shown promising results. Oxygen production could be achieved at 3.5 atm pressure, with a purity level of 93 – 96 per cent. This gaseous oxygen can be utilised for COVID-related needs across existing hospitals and upcoming COVID-19-specific facilities by providing a continuous supply of oxygen. The pilot project is a collaborative effort between IIT Bombay, Tata Consulting Engineers and Spantech Engineers, Mumbai, who deal with PSA Nitrogen & Oxygen plant production.