A novel dynamic method for the storage of calibration gas mixtures based on thermal mass flow controllers

A dynamic method for the storage of calibration gas mixtures is presented using thermal mass flow controllers (MFCs) connected to a dead end volume. The approach relies on barometry to calibrate the unknown constant volume and two MFCs which regulate the flow rate of carbon dioxide and methane respectively. Binary gas mixtures of these components are prepared and stored within the calibrated volume tank up to 9 bar at ambient temperature. Thermodynamic data of pressure, temperature and density of the gas mixtures are retrieved. The expanded uncertainties at 95% confidence level of the molar fraction and the density of the mixture are evaluated. FTIR Spectroscopy is used in situ to analyse the gas mixtures.

Automated summary

A dynamic method for the storage of calibration gas mixtures is presented using thermal mass flow controllers (MFCs) connected to a dead end volume. The approach relies on barometry to calibrate the unknown constant volume and two MFCs which regulate the flow rate of carbon dioxide and methane respectively. Binary gas mixtures of these components are prepared and stored within the calibrated volume tank up to 9 bar at ambient temperature. Thermodynamic data of pressure, temperature and density of the gas mixtures are retrieved. The expanded uncertainties at 95% confidence level of the molar fraction and the density of the mixture are evaluated. FTIR Spectroscopy is used in situ to analyze the gas mixtures.