Neon is the chemical element with the symbol Ne and atomic number 10. It is part of the group of noble gases (helium, argon, krypton, xenon and neon) that are inert, meaning they do not bond or swap electrons with other elements. They also conduct electricity, light up when a current runs through them and are odorless, colorless and monatomic (exist as individual atoms).
Neon gas is one of the rarest atmospheric gases, occurring in the Earth’s atmosphere at very low concentrations (about 18 parts per million by volume), obtained by fractional distillation from liquid air. It has been used for many applications including advertising signs, high-voltage indicators and lightning arrestors and in helium-neon lasers.
The most common use of neon is in the lighting of advertisements and other signs, particularly those that are used outdoors. These lights are made up of glass tubes filled with a small amount (low pressure) of neon gas that emits colored light when an electric current is applied to the tube.
Known hazards
A simple inhalation of neon can cause nausea, dizziness, unconsciousness and vomiting. Inhalation of the gas can also be fatal in severe cases if not enough oxygen is available to breathe.
Another important risk of neon exposure is its ability to supersaturate the air in confined spaces, increasing suffocation risks. Exposure can also cause frostbite when the liquid is in contact with skin or eyes. As the exposure progresses, mental alertness and muscle coordination are diminished and judgment may become faulty, leading to emotional instability.