Hi all,
I'm trying to run an incubation experiment to verify the nitrification rate in the water column using Tedlar bags. The problem is that I need to take all the air bubbles out from each bag. The method that I'm using introduces some air (hose or peristaltic pump). Two problems arose from this: too many handling (some bags leaked); time-consuming processing.
It would be great to know if someone has another approach to avoid these major problems.
Experiment design:
a) Take water samples from 3 depths and put them into the bags (triplicate).
b) injection of NH4 isotope
c) take the first sample (nutrients, 15NO2, 15NO3) immediately after the injection
d) take the second sample after 3 hours of incubation.
Thank you in advance
Regards
The method will certainly add air, even if the tedlar bags are evacuated flat before use. Please advise what volume you will need for each sample and allow for duplicates and QC samples. I would think maybe purge the fill line before sampling and be careful about bubbles entering the sample cell or container. You may want to try enclosed samples of PVC or other pipe with valves on each end so you can purge the air out of the sampler with the fill line purging water and then close both valves to capture the sample. Consider making the ends removable for cleaning. Good luck with your project.
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