초록 ▼

The present invention provides improvements in a device and in a process for reducing the amounts of carbon monoxide and any oxides of nitrogen in an airbag inflated by a pyrotechnic inflator by exposing the combustion gases released by the explosion of the inflator, wherein carbon monoxide has been

The present invention provides improvements in a device and in a process for reducing the amounts of carbon monoxide and any oxides of nitrogen in an airbag inflated by a pyrotechnic inflator by exposing the combustion gases released by the explosion of the inflator, wherein carbon monoxide has been to a large extent oxidized to carbon dioxide with a first oxidizing agent, to a catalytic activation system of a supported palladium(II) salt in contact with a thermally stable second oxidizing agent, preferably an organic heteropolyanion capable of donating oxygen. In the device, the oxidant and the catalyst are protected by a thin, impermeable sheet from contact with surrounding atmosphere to prevent progressive deactivation prior to use.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A device, having a means for being positioned within an airbag, for inflating the airbag by means of combustion gases formed in an explosion of a nitrocellulose inflator, wherein a major part of carbon monoxide formed as a result of the combustion is oxidized to carbon di

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A device, having a means for being positioned within an airbag, for inflating the airbag by means of combustion gases formed in an explosion of a nitrocellulose inflator, wherein a major part of carbon monoxide formed as a result of the combustion is oxidized to carbon dioxide by a first oxidizing agent placed in the path of said combustion gases;the improvement to the device further comprising:(a) a catalytic activation system consisting essentially of a supported palladium(II) salt in contact with a thermally stable second oxidizing agent; and(b) a housing for enclosing said catalytic activation system, which housing is not in direct contact with the combustion gases already exposed to the first oxidizing agent, and which is hermetically sealed with a covering impermeable to gases, so as to protect the catalytic oxidation system from premature deactivation by any carbon monoxide that may be present in the atmosphere; said covering being capable of rupturing as a result of the explosion of the inflator, creating at least one opening for permitting contact of the combustion gases with the catalytic activation system (a).