Oxygen Analysis

Oxygen analysis is performed in much the same way as CHN and S analyses using the same elemental combustion analysers, although configured differently for the O analysis. The technique used is based on the Unterzaucher modified method. The sample is weighed into a silver foil capsule and dropped into the reactor furnace which is maintained at 1060?C. Here the sample is pyrolised. Quantitative conversion of oxygen to carbon monoxide is achieved by a layer of nickel coated carbon. The pyrolised gas mixture then passes through an adsorption filter where halogenated compounds are retained. The gas mixture flows into the chromatographic column for separation of CO from N2, CH4 and H2. The CO is measured using a TCD which produces a signal proportional to the concentration. The instrument is calibrated with the analysis of known reference compounds. Oxygen analysis can be carried out on most organic compounds although those containing quantities of fluorine can interfere with the process. Our normal turnaround time for oxygen analysis is within two working days but shorter turnaround times can be arranged for extremely urgent samples.

Minimum sample size is 5 mg.