Agilent 990 Micro GC Biogas Analyzers - Data Sheet

Significance of the Topic

Biogas, a renewable energy source produced by anaerobic digestion of organic materials, requires accurate compositional analysis to optimize its calorific value and ensure consistent blending with natural gas or LPG. Fast and reliable measurement supports operational efficiency and quality assurance in both laboratory and field environments.

Study Objectives and Overview

This document describes the Agilent 990 Micro GC Biogas Analyzer and its Extended configuration. The goal is to provide a turnkey solution for rapid, precise quantification of permanent gases (H₂, O₂, N₂, CO, CO₂, He, Ne, CH₄), hydrogen sulfide, and hydrocarbons from C₁ to C₇ in biogas and related streams.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The system uses a micro gas chromatograph with either two or three column channels:

• Channel 1: 10 m CP-Molsieve 5A column with argon carrier, retention time stability option and backflush-to-vent.
• Channel 2: 10 m CP-PoraPLOT U column with helium carrier and backflush for CO₂, moisture and higher boiling species.
• Channel 3 (Extended): 6 m CP-Sil 5 CB column with helium carrier for C₄–C₇ hydrocarbons.

All channels feature heated sample lines and injectors up to 110 °C to prevent condensation. Backflush capability protects column integrity by removing adsorptive components.

Main Results and Discussion

The two‐channel Biogas Analyzer completes analysis in under 120 seconds, while the three‐channel Extended version does so in under 150 seconds. Peak area repeatability is better than 0.5% RSD for all target compounds. Baseline separation of permanent gases and hydrocarbons is achieved within approximately 1.6 minutes, demonstrating high sensitivity, linearity and stable retention times.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Factory-calibrated, ready-to-use solution with validated methods and final test data.
• Optimized for both laboratory and on-site biogas analysis.
• Ease of use with minimal operator training required.
• Rapid throughput enhances process feedback and product valuation.

Future Trends and Applications

Future developments may include integration with continuous monitoring systems, expanded multiplexed sampling for complex gas matrices, coupling with advanced data analytics and chemometrics, and further miniaturization for portable, field-deployable analyzers.

Conclusion

Agilent’s 990 Micro GC Biogas Analyzers deliver a robust, fast and comprehensive approach to biogas composition analysis. Modular channel configurations, advanced column protection and rapid cycle times make them ideal for research, quality control and industrial process optimization.

References

Agilent Technologies. Agilent 990 Micro GC Biogas Analyzers Data Sheet. October 2020.