How does a zeolite filter oxygen in a concentrator?

In an oxygen concentrator, zeolite acts as a molecular sieve that filters oxygen by adsorbing nitrogen from compressed air. The process begins with ambient air being drawn into the concentrator and compressed. The compressed air is then passed through a bed of zeolite material. Due to the zeolite’s selective adsorption properties, nitrogen molecules adhere to the internal surfaces of its micropores, while oxygen molecules are less affected and pass through the bed. The result is an oxygen-enriched gas stream that can be delivered to the user. After the zeolite becomes saturated with nitrogen, the system reduces the pressure, allowing the nitrogen to desorb and the zeolite to regenerate for the next cycle. This pressure swing adsorption process enables continuous oxygen production without the need for chemical reactions or consumable materials.