Is there any technique that can detect and measure traces of nitrogen in a gas mixture? I know that techniques such as QCL and IR can detect variety of gases including O2/CO/CO2/NOx/HCs.... but I can't find any information about capabilities of such systems in detecting N2 for continuous gas monitoring applications.
Thanks!
Molecular nitrogen (N2) does not have an IR spectrum. All symmetric diatomic homonuclear molecules, such as N2, O2, and H2 do not have a permanent dipole moment and therefore can not interact with electromagnetic radiation.
I see. Do you know any analysis methods other than GC capable of detecting all those molecules?
Raman spectroscopy is a possible method for detecting all the gases you mention. (see e.g. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/en8043165)
Mohamad, Johannes' answer that Raman spectroscopy is an option for all of the species is correct, but I not sure how well it would do with those gases in trace amounts. Abolhasan's answer is good, but specific to N2. He suggests an electrochemical sensor. Each sensor has different limitation. What's right for your application depends on factors that are unique to your application.
You asked for something other than GC. Have you considered mass spectroscopy?
Christopher, I'm considering both Raman and mass spec. Right now I'm discussing the details of several options including the sensitivity toward each component and connectivity protocols to determine the option that best suits our purpose. thanks!
regarding Raman spectroscopy, there are are couple of interesting options utilizing cavity enhancement. this can improve the sensitivity to say of the order of 100s of ppm
Navid,
Super-late, but you can detect N2 directly by passing a discharge through the gas of interest, and monitoring the emission lines of N2 with a spectrometer.
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