Process for the purification of the inert gases

Abstract From the Canadian patent

A process for producing a substantially oxygen-free gaseous product such as argon containing not more than one ppm by volume of oxygen is disclosed. The process comprises introducing hydrogen into a gas stream which contains oxygen and moisture, contacting the gas stream with a dessicant to remove substantially all of the moisture therefrom contacting, the substantially anhydrous gas stream with an oxidation catalyst to convert substantially all of the oxygen in the gas stream to water, and contacting the resultant gas stream with a dessicant to remove the water created in the oxidation step. The product stream may be further purified to remove residual hydrogen contained therein.