O2 Concentrator PSA Zeolite — FRCA Primary MCQ

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ModeratePhysics & Clinical MeasurementO2 Concentrator PSA ZeoliteFRCA Primary

An oxygen concentrator used in home oxygen therapy works by which principle?

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Correct answer: A — Pressure swing adsorption using zeolite molecular sieves

Oxygen concentrators use pressure swing adsorption (PSA). Compressed air is passed through zeolite molecular sieve columns that preferentially adsorb nitrogen. The remaining gas is >90% oxygen. Two columns alternate: one adsorbs N2 while the other is regenerated by depressurisation. They provide FiO2 up to 95% at flow rates of 1-5 L/min.

Reference: Al-Shaikh Stacey 2019 Essentials of Anaesthetic Equipment