The reaction that takes place in water when the two powders are mixed is as follows:

99.7% pure oxygen (remainder 0.3% is moisture).   View laboratory test report

What is left in the bottle after the reaction (the residue) ?

Sodium carbonate, water and the manganese catalyst (which, by definition, is unchanged in the reaction)

Is it safe to dispose of the residue in the environment ?

Yes, the Sodium carbonate is a naturally occurring salt and the manganese compound occurs naturally in the environment as a mineral. It is therefore environmentally acceptable and is safe to dispose of the residue.

Are the two chemical powders poisonous ?

No. If the chemicals come into contact with the skin or eyes rinse the affected area with cool water. If irritation persists medical advice should be sought. In the event of accidental spillage of the powders rinse the area with water to reduce the white powder (sodium percarbonate) to a harmless substance.

What is the flow rate of the Oxygen produced ?

The flow rate increases as the reaction proceeds with time as below:

Total oxygen produced = approx.  94 litres

Refer to instructions on the green cylinder – in cold conditions it is suggested you initially swirl the green cylinder to accelerate the chemical reaction.

What happens if I accidentally add two bottles of the chemicals to the cylinder ?

An over-reaction will occur. Whilst it not dangerous, the increased flow of oxygen will overwhelm the water trap and the device will not function as designed. Our operational and filling instructions must always be adhered to.

What happens if I accidentally add double the amount of water to the cylinder ?

A slower flow rate will occur

What happens if I ‘kink’ the tubing to the face mask during the reaction, thereby blocking the flow of oxygen ?

The oxygen production will continue in the cylinder regardless and the pressure will therefore increase within the cylinder. The face mask tubing is a simple push fit onto the cylinder top and will eventually pop off safely once the pressure has reached a certain limit. It is safe to continue using the system after reconnecting the tubing. 

What happens if I invert or tilt the cylinder during the reaction ?

The contents of the green cylinder will spew out of the cap nozzle. The cylinder must be maintained in an upright (or close to upright) position during use. Although there is no danger if the cylinder is knocked over accidentally the contents may be hot and therefore due care should be taken. The cylinder should always be kept in the carry bag when in use.

Can they be carried on an aircraft, have the airlines approved it to be carried as hand luggage ?

The contents have been certified by South African Airways as ‘non-hazardous’ and can therefore be carried on their aircraft. We are submitting the chemicals to the other major airlines to obtain similar clearance letters.

How hot does the cylinder get during the reaction ?

As the reaction proceeds the green cylinder will get progressively warmer (it is an exothermic reaction). It may reach a maximum temperature of 80 deg centigrade. Care should be taken in handling the residue fluid as it gets hot.

Can I use salt water instead of tap water ?

Yes you can use sea water or river water. In fact you can use any water as long as it is not contaminated. It will still produce 99.7% oxygen

What does the water trap on top of the green cylinder do ?

It acts as a humidifier and filter. It also provides a visual and audible indicator that oxygen is being generated. 

How long can I store the chemicals ?

Provided the bottles are unopened the shelf life is indefinite. Long term storage should be below 30 degs centigrade. view laboratory test report