A method and apparatus for spectrochemical analysis of a gas is provided in which the subject gas is mixed with a carrier gas and introduced into an analysis space between two electrodes. A continuous direct current discharge between the electrodes is produced which sustains a plasma formed from... Show moreA method and apparatus for spectrochemical analysis of a gas is provided in which the subject gas is mixed with a carrier gas and introduced into an analysis space between two electrodes. A continuous direct current discharge between the electrodes is produced which sustains a plasma formed from the carrier gas so that components of the subject gas are excited to luminescence. Characteristic radiation emitted by the components is then detected. The carrier gas has a higher ionization potential than components of the subject gas and, for example, may be a noble gas. The method is operable at atmospheric pressure. The electrodes may be either solid wires or tubes through which the gas mixture enters and leaves the analysis space.
Sponsorship: IIT Research Institute
United States Patent Show less
