SOURCE: AFI
The CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune, has successfully breathed new life into the On-Board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS) of the MiG-29 fighter aircraft. This critical system, essential for providing pilots with a continuous supply of oxygen at high altitudes, was rejuvenated through a pioneering process developed by CSIR-NCL scientists.
The Indian Navy, recognizing the diminishing efficiency of the MiG-29’s OBOGS units due to prolonged exposure to moisture, approached CSIR-NCL in November 2023. The zeolite material, the heart of the OBOGS system, was losing its ability to selectively adsorb nitrogen and produce pure oxygen.
A team led by Vijay Bokade, head of the catalysis and inorganic chemistry division, along with Prashant Niphadkar and research students, devised an optimized rejuvenation process. This innovative technique significantly enhanced the oxygen output of the OBOGS units, boosting it from a mere 30% to an impressive 85%. Rigorous testing conducted at the Naval Aircraft Yard, Goa, confirmed the remarkable improvement.
To address the needs of the Indian Navy, CSIR-NCL scaled up the rejuvenation process to rejuvenate approximately 54 kg of zeolite. Several MiG-29 aircraft have already been equipped with these revitalized OBOGS units, ensuring their optimal performance and the safety of their pilots during high-altitude missions.
CSIR-NCL’s commitment to self-reliance and technological advancement extends beyond the rejuvenation process. The laboratory has independently developed the technology to synthesize oxygen-enriching zeolites, ensuring a sustainable supply for future OBOGS units. The integration of these indigenously produced zeolites into MiG-29 aircraft is currently underway, solidifying India’s position in the realm of aerospace technology.