Will a nitrogen gas generator be compatible with my sample concentrator?

Importance of the Topic

Many laboratories rely on nitrogen gas for essential sample preparation techniques such as blowdown evaporation. Traditional nitrogen cylinders introduce logistical challenges including ordering, storage, delivery fees and the risk of running out of supply mid-experiment. Switching to an on-site nitrogen generator addresses these issues by providing a continuous, reliable gas source, reducing downtime and improving workflow efficiency.

Study Objectives and Overview

This overview examines the compatibility of Organomation’s nitrogen generators with common sample concentrators. It evaluates performance characteristics, cost savings and environmental impact. A complementary case study from an environmental engineering research group illustrates practical implementation and long-term reliability.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The generators discussed use two main separation technologies:

• Membrane-based separation (NITRO-GEN)
  • Semi-permeable fibers vent oxygen, CO2 and moisture while allowing nitrogen to pass at up to 99% purity and 0–20 L/min flow.
  
• Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) (NITRO-GEN+)
  • Alternating adsorption columns remove impurities under pressure, yielding up to 99% pure N₂ at flow rates to 35 L/min.
  

The NITRO-GEN models sit directly next to benchtop evaporators and require only compressed air or, on the NITRO-GEN+, an integrated compressor. Sample concentrator instrumentation includes the N-EVAP nitrogen evaporator used in PFAS analysis by Temple University’s McKenzie Group.

Key Results and Discussion

Cost analysis for a hypothetical lab consuming 30 L/min for 4 hours daily (≈250 cylinders annually) shows over $18 000 spent on cylinders alone. A NITRO-GEN generator at under $8 000 yields a payback period of less than six months. Even labs with lower consumption (one cylinder weekly) break even within two to three years. The Temple University group reports uninterrupted operation of one NITRO-GEN since 2019 with expanded capacity on a second unit.

Benefits and Practical Applications

On-site nitrogen generation delivers:

• Uninterrupted gas supply that eliminates workflow delays from cylinder exchanges.
• Reduced safety risks by avoiding high-pressure tanks and handling.
• Lower operational costs—no rental, delivery or environmental fees.
• Eco-friendly operation by cutting transportation emissions and reducing cylinder waste.
• Compact benchtop design for direct placement alongside sample concentrators.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging developments may include:

• Digital purity control and real-time monitoring via IoT integration.
• Higher flow and purity options to accommodate larger sample throughput.
• Hybrid separation technologies combining membrane and PSA approaches.
• Further reductions in energy consumption and noise levels.
• Expanded applications beyond blowdown, such as direct integration with GC-MS and LC-MS platforms.

Conclusion

Nitrogen generators such as Organomation’s NITRO-GEN and NITRO-GEN+ offer laboratories a cost-effective, reliable and environmentally responsible alternative to traditional gas cylinders. Their ease of use, rapid payback and bench-top compatibility make them an attractive choice for any analytical workflow requiring consistent nitrogen supply.