Improving Trace CO and CO2 Analysis in Hydrogen and various Hydrocarbon Gas Streams

Significance of the Topic

Trace-level detection of CO and CO2 in hydrogen and hydrocarbon streams is essential for ensuring product purity, process control, safety, and regulatory compliance. High-sensitivity analysis prevents catalyst poisoning, equipment fouling, and process inefficiencies.

Study Objectives and Overview

This work evaluates a turnkey solution implementing the UOP 603-13 method for rapid and accurate quantification of CO, CO2, and methane in hydrogen and natural gas matrices. Key goals include reducing analysis time, improving detection limits, and minimizing interference from methane.

Methodology and Instrumentation

A gas chromatograph equipped with a proprietary AC Analytical Controls methanizer and bypass valve enables conversion of CO and CO2 to methane for detection by flame ionization. Fast column separation achieves complete analysis in under five minutes. Heart-cutting valves isolate target components from matrix gases to enhance peak resolution and accuracy.

Used Instrumentation

• Agilent 7890B gas chromatograph
• AC Analytical Controls methanizer with bypass valve
• Heart-cutting gas sampling valves

Main Results and Discussion

Limits of detection for CO, methane, and CO2 were determined at 0.03, 0.04, and 0.1 ppm, respectively, with limits of quantification of 0.11, 0.14, and 0.32 ppm. Calibration curves exhibited excellent linearity across the tested range. Applying heart-cutting improved signal-to-noise ratios and eliminated methane matrix interferences in natural gas samples.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Analysis time below five minutes supports high throughput
• Trace-level sensitivity and repeatability enhance quality control
• Compliance with UOP 603 method ensures regulatory acceptance
• Robust hardware design facilitates field and laboratory integration

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements may include integration of mass spectrometric detectors for sub-ppb sensitivity, automated sample preparation, real-time data analytics, and adaptation for emerging gas streams such as biomethane and hydrogen blends.

Conclusion

The presented turnkey GC-methanizer approach offers a fast, sensitive, and reliable solution for trace CO and CO2 analysis in hydrogen and hydrocarbon gas streams, delivering superior performance and return on investment for industrial and research laboratories.