cryosorbent

A cryosorbent is a material used to selectively adsorb substances at very low temperatures. These materials are designed to capture and retain specific molecules or gases from a mixture when cooled to cryogenic temperatures, typically below -150 degrees Celsius (-238 degrees Fahrenheit). The adsorption process relies on the physical attraction between the cryosorbent material and the target substance, which is enhanced at these low temperatures due to reduced molecular motion and increased van der Waals forces.

Common applications for cryosorbents include gas purification, separation, and storage in cryogenic environments. They are often employed in space exploration, scientific research involving low-temperature physics, and in the production and handling of cryogenic fluids. For instance, cryosorbents can be used to remove trace impurities from noble gases or to capture specific isotopes. The effectiveness of a cryosorbent is determined by its surface area, pore structure, chemical composition, and its affinity for the substance being adsorbed. Once saturated, the cryosorbent can often be regenerated by warming it to release the adsorbed substances, allowing for reuse.