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How to Measure Nitrogen in Argon Gas

Argon gas is very rarely pure. In fact, most gas of any sort is anything but pure. Oftentimes, finding a sample of a choice gas without any odd additions is impossible. Certain instruments, like GOW-MAC's Series 1200 Argon Gas Analyzer, measures argon plasma for impurities like N2 (Nitrogen) in the gas down to only 10 ppb (parts per billion). Measuring gas used to be incredibly difficult, requiring multiple machines and time, but with technological advancements, the process becomes much simpler.

Things You'll Need

GOW-MAC Series 1200 Argon Gas Analyzer
Argon gas

Instructions

- 1
  Insert argon gas via argon-filled tube into the testing chamber of the powered GOW-MAC Series 1200. Connect corresponding cables from the testing unit to the Series 1200 electronic readout display.
- 2
  Zero the readout to prepare for uncontaminated testing of the argon sample. Having a set beginning of zero will result in the most accurate readout of the gas.
- 3
  Initiate infrared light spectrum analysis of the argon gas by powering the machine. The light passes through the chamber and passes by the argon plasma. The light detects trace amount of inert gases like hydrogen and oxygen gas. These small amounts notify the infrared light. The Series 1200 reads the light's information and translates that to the concrete ppb number.
- 4
  Record the Series 1200 readout, noting the level of purity in the gas. High purity argon can be used as a semiconductor, fluorescent lighting agent or industrial gas, so testing for pure argon is important.

Nature