Which material is typically used to construct oxygen cylinders?

The construction of oxygen cylinders is generally made from seamless steel because this material offers the necessary strength and durability to safely contain high-pressure gases. Seamless steel is ideal for this purpose since it can withstand the internal pressures without the risk of fractures that might arise from welded seams. The properties of steel also provide resistance to corrosion and damage, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the oxygen storage under variable environmental conditions.

Other materials such as plastics, wood, and glass do not possess the required strength or safety features for high-pressure applications. Plastic might not be able to handle the extreme pressures and could fail under such stress. Wood is not suitable for gas cylinders due to its natural composition and lack of structural integrity at high pressures. Glass, while it can be strong, is prone to shattering, which would be extremely dangerous for a pressurized vessel. Hence, seamless steel is the appropriate choice for oxygen cylinder construction.