In mining, nitrogen can create an inert environment underground. Oxygen and methane increase over time in underground areas, and both gases are highly flammable. Pumping nitrogen into sealed workspaces reduces the atmosphere’s flammability and protects workers from explosions.
In metalworking, nitrogen is used for annealing. This process increases a metal’s ductility while reducing hardness. Annealing is essential for producing metals that will not crack under pressure and can be easily shaped. Nitrogen also creates an inert atmosphere around furnaces to prevent explosions.
