Progress in magnetic air separation technology

Main research progress in magnetic air separation field was systematically reviewed. As an emerging air separation technology, magnetic air separation technology (MAST) utilizes magnetic susceptibility difference to separate oxygen and nitrogen. MAST can be divided into three kinds according to its structure: absorption type, side diffusion type, and ring type. Various MAST systems were formed by the combination and cascading of these structures. Key techniques and major applications of MAST were summarized. MAST has advantages of simple structure, easy pretreatment, and low energy consumption, which is suitable to low concentration oxygen production. Development trends and application prospect were illustrated. Combination of MAST with traditional cryogenic distillation or membrane separation has the potential to produce high purity oxygen, which can improve separation efficiency with low extra energy and financial cost. ©, 2015, Zhejiang University. All right reserved.