Patent ID: 7291837
Filing Date: 2007-11-06
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A method of preparing a quantity of gaseous carbon dioxide for analysis by a scintillation spectrometer, comprising: providing a first container of known volume; introducing a sample of gaseous carbon dioxide into the first container under known temperature and pressure, whereby the mass of the sample of carbon dioxide is quantifiable; providing a second container for acting as a trap; connecting the first container to the second container via a valve controlled conduit; volumetrically isolating the interconnected first container and second container; causing the sample of carbon dioxide to become entrapped in the second container by freezing; providing an absorbent in a third container in a mass sufficient to absorb more than the whole of the sample of carbon dioxide; closing the connection between the first container and the second container; connecting the second container to the third container via the valve controlled conduit to form a combined volume; volumetrically isolating the interconnected second container and third container; causing the sample of carbon dioxide in the second container to sublime; introducing the sample of carbon dioxide into the absorbent while the combined volume of the second container and third container is volumetrically isolated, whereby the carbon dioxide is introduced into the absorbent under static conditions; causing the sample of carbon dioxide to be absorbed by the absorbent.