The application of nitrogen as a "carrier gas" in laboratory analysis and testing instruments.

發(fā)布時(shí)間：2024-09-20 瀏覽次數(shù)：213

Introduction

One of the most common applications of nitrogen in laboratories is to provide a stable inert gas environment for analytical instruments such as gas chromatographs, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). As an inert gas, nitrogen does not react with most substances, making it an ideal protective atmosphere for detectors, enhancing their sensitivity and improving the accuracy of trace component measurements. In addition to serving as a protective atmosphere for detectors, nitrogen also plays a crucial role as a carrier gas for transporting samples in analytical instruments.

What is a Carrier Gas?

The gas used for sample transport in analytical instruments is referred to as the carrier gas.

Role of Carrier Gas

The primary function of the carrier gas is to transport gas samples or vaporized samples into the chromatography column at a specific flow rate for separation. The separated components are then carried into the detector for analysis, and finally, the gas exits the chromatography system for venting or collection. The carrier gas acts solely as a transport medium and does not participate in the separation process itself.

Common Carrier Gas Options

Common carrier gases include hydrogen, helium, nitrogen, argon, and carbon dioxide. The choice and purification of carrier gases typically depend on the type of detector used, as well as considerations of safety and cost.

Argon (Ar)

Argon has a higher molecular weight and a lower thermal conductivity, and due to its higher cost, it is used less frequently. The choice of carrier gas in gas chromatography is determined based on the chromatographic column system and the type of detector used in the instrument.

Helium (He)

Helium has a lower molecular weight, higher thermal conductivity, and lower viscosity. It is safer compared to hydrogen but is more expensive, making it commonly used for high-performance separation analysis.

Hydrogen (H2)

Hydrogen has a low molecular weight, high thermal conductivity, and low viscosity, making it a common carrier gas for thermal conductivity detectors and an essential fuel gas for hydrogen flame ionization detectors. However, hydrogen is flammable and explosive, so special safety precautions are required during its use.

Nitrogen (N2)

Nitrogen has a relatively high molecular weight, a low diffusion coefficient, high column efficiency, is safe, and is cost-effective, making it the most commonly used carrier gas among these four options.

The purity of the carrier gas is crucial; higher purity is preferred because impurities such as oxygen and moisture can interact with the stationary phase of the chromatographic column, leading to degradation of the stationary phase, reduced column efficiency, and decreased sensitivity of the detector, which can result in inaccurate measurements of trace components. Additionally, since experiments often take a long time, it is important for the carrier gas to have consistent stability.

As an important gas separation device in laboratories, nitrogen generators provide high purity, good stability, ease of operation, and energy efficiency, leading to their widespread use in laboratory settings.

HOLANG Nitrogen Generator

The Holang modular nitrogen generator is a new generation product developed by Holang, featuring the following characteristics:

High Purity:

Nitrogen purity of 99.999%, meeting the high demands for carrier gas purity in laboratories.
Good Stability:
100% factory testing before shipment, using international top components to ensure a consistently stable output of pure nitrogen.
Easy Operation:
Nitrogen can be generated on-site by simply turning on the power switch. The intelligent touch screen panel provides clear and straightforward operation.
Low Operating Costs:
No reliance on external gas suppliers, eliminating transportation costs and reducing nitrogen loss.
High Safety:
On-site nitrogen generation effectively avoids safety hazards associated with high-pressure gas cylinders and low-pressure liquid nitrogen tanks. It is equipped with an alarm system and maintenance reminders to ensure safety during operation.

Holang Technology

continuously develops in the direction of intelligence, environmental friendliness, energy efficiency, and customization,

committed to providing laboratories

with more efficient, convenient, and safe gas supply solutions.

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The application of nitrogen as a "carrier gas" in laboratory analysis and testing instruments.