What gas is used in car airbags?
2 Answers
Car airbags use nitrogen gas. Here is the relevant introduction: 1. Composition of the airbag system: The airbag system mainly consists of sensors, a microprocessor, a gas generator, and the airbag. 2. Principle of the airbag system: Sensors and the microprocessor are used to determine the severity of a collision and transmit signals; the gas generator, based on the signal, initiates an ignition action, ignites solid fuel to produce gas, and inflates the airbag, causing it to expand rapidly. 3. Function of the airbag system: When a collision occurs while the car is in motion, the airbag sensor first receives the impact signal. If the impact reaches a specified intensity, the sensor activates and sends a signal to the electronic controller. Upon receiving the signal, the electronic controller compares it with its stored data. If the conditions for airbag deployment are met, the drive circuit sends a start signal to the gas generator in the airbag module. The gas generator, upon receiving the signal, ignites the gas-generating agent to produce a large amount of gas, which is filtered and cooled before entering the airbag. This causes the airbag to break through the padding and deploy rapidly within an extremely short time, forming an elastic cushion in front of the driver or passengers. The airbag then promptly deflates and contracts, absorbing the impact energy, thereby effectively protecting the head and chest from injury or reducing the severity of injuries.
As a seasoned driver with over 20 years of experience, I know that airbags use nitrogen. The airbag isn't always inflated; instead, when the vehicle experiences a severe collision, sensors immediately detect it and trigger the chemical explosives in the airbag module, such as sodium azide. This substance decomposes extremely quickly, releasing a large amount of nitrogen gas to fill the airbag within milliseconds. Why nitrogen? Because it's stable and non-combustible, preventing ignition of anything under high temperatures, thus protecting passengers from burns or blast injuries. The inflation speed is incredibly fast, reaching hundreds of kilometers per hour, providing instant cushioning protection. While driving, I always remind my family not to sit too close to the airbag position because its forceful deployment can cause injury. During regular vehicle inspections, technicians also check the airbag system to ensure it's intact and leak-free, guaranteeing it won't fail in critical moments. Although airbags are effective, cautious driving remains the most important aspect of road safety.
