Submarines generate oxygen primarily through a process called electrolysis, which separates water molecules into their constituent parts: hydrogen and oxygen.
Life support is critical aboard a submarine, especially since it can remain submerged for extended periods. Unlike surface ships that can draw in fresh air, submarines must generate their own breathable atmosphere. This is achieved by converting water into oxygen.
The Electrolysis Process on Submarines
The core method involves using electricity to split water molecules. However, submarines operate in saltwater environments, so the process begins with purifying this seawater.
According to the reference, the key steps are:
- Heating Seawater: Seawater is heated to create water vapor.
- Salt Separation: This heating process leaves the salts behind.
- Cooling and Collection: The water vapor is then cooled and collected as purified water in a dedicated tank.
- Electrolysis: An electrical current is passed through this purified water.
- Molecular Separation: This electrical current separates the water molecule (H₂O) into oxygen (O₂) and hydrogen (H₂).
- Oxygen Utilization: The generated oxygen is released into the submarine's atmosphere for the crew to breathe.
- Hydrogen Management: The hydrogen is typically vented overboard or sometimes used in other systems.
Steps Summarized
Here's a simple breakdown of the process:
- Purify water from seawater.
- Pass electricity through purified water.
- Water splits into oxygen and hydrogen.
- Oxygen is used.
Visualizing the Process
| Step | Action | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Purification | Heat seawater, cool vapor | Pure water (salts left behind) |
| Electrolysis | Pass electrical current through pure water | Water molecules split |
| Separation | H₂O -> O₂ + H₂ | Oxygen & Hydrogen created |
| Atmosphere Supply | Release O₂ into cabin | Breathable air |
This system ensures that the crew has a continuous supply of oxygen without needing to surface frequently just for air. It's a vital piece of technology that allows modern submarines to operate submerged for weeks or even months at a time.
