Abstract: A system and method of separating the gaseous components of air to provide an oxygen-enriched gas stream and a nitrogen-enriched gas stream are disclosed. The on-board gas generation system and method generate an oxygen-enriched stream including substantially pure oxygen, such as about 99% or greater oxygen, and, if desired, having a pressure of up to about 10,000 pounds per square inch, thereby eliminating the need for a separate compressor to compress the oxygen-enriched gas stream. The on-board oxygen generation system and method are used in enclosed vehicles, like aircraft and military tanks, to supply substantially pure oxygen for breathing, especially at high altitudes and in contaminated atmospheres.

Abstract: A system and method of separating the gaseous components of air to provide a compressed oxygen-enriched gas stream and a nitrogen-enriched gas stream are disclosed. The separation system and method generate an oxygen-enriched stream including substantially pure oxygen, such as about 99% or greater oxygen, and having a pressure of up to about 10,000 pounds per square inch, thereby eliminating the need for a separate compressor to compress the oxygen-enriched gas stream. The oxygen separation system and method are used in aircraft to supply substantially pure oxygen that facilitates in-flight operation of an aircraft emergency power unit, especially at high altitudes.