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What types of gases can photoionization detectors measure

What types of gases can photoionization detectors measure


 Photoionization detectors are capable of measuring a wide range of gases, primarily focusing on volatile organic compounds and some inorganic substances. photoionization detectors are versatile tools primarily used for detecting VOCs and some inorganic gases, making them essential in various industries for monitoring air quality and ensuring safety.


how does photoionization detector work

photoionization detector Photoionization detectors are sophisticated instruments used to detect and measure volatile organic compounds ...


Types of Gases Measured by Photoionization Detectors


Volatile Organic Compounds


Common VOCs detected include:

Benzene

Toluene

Xylene

Hexane

Isopar solvents

Diesel fuels.


Inorganic Gases


can also measure certain inorganic gases, such as:

Ammonia

Hydrogen sulfide

Some chlorinated hydrocarbons.


Other Organic Compounds


PIDs can detect a variety of other organic compounds, including solvents, fuels, and pesticides, depending on their ionization potentials.


PIDs have specific limitations regarding the gases they can measure:

They cannot accurately detect gases with higher ionization potentials than the energy emitted by the UV lamp in the PID.

Common gases that PIDs do not measure effectively include:

Natural gases (e.g., methane)

Noble gases (e.g., helium, argon)

Mineral acids (e.g., nitric acid, sulfuric acid)

Non-volatile substances (e.g., waxes and greases)

Small molecules (e.g., ozone, carbon monoxide).

In summary, photoionization detectors are versatile tools primarily used for detecting VOCs and some inorganic gases, making them essential in various industries for monitoring air quality and ensuring safety.

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