Application of gas chromatography to measure concentrations of ethane, propane, and ethylene found in interstitial soil gases
Very low concentrations of light natural gases are ubiquitous in the interstitial soil gases of hydrocarbon provinces; however, the limited sample sizes that can be collected require the use of new, more sensitive gas-chromatography techniques. One analytical method developed for measuring ethane and ethylene to 5 ppb and propane to 20 ppb, without preconcentration, uses carrier gases that have been highly purified by gettering, catalytic-combustion, and permeation techniques. The gas chromatograph used for these measurements has a flame ionization detector, advanced state-of-the-art columns, and automated valve-switching controls that minimize the time necessary for analysis. A special gas-scrubbing technique greatly reduces the noise level, thus allowing the detection of very weak signals. Because the equipment's calibration is stable and the method simple and reliable, the technicians do not need special training.
- OSTI ID:
- 7119772
- Journal Information:
- J. Chromatogr. Sci.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Chromatogr. Sci.; (United States) Vol. 18; ISSN JCHSB
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
400102* -- Chemical & Spectral Procedures
ALKANES
ALKENES
CHEMICAL ANALYSIS
CHROMATOGRAPHY
ETHANE
ETHYLENE
FLUIDS
GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY
GASES
HYDROCARBONS
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
PROPANE
QUANTITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS
SEPARATION PROCESSES
SOILS