Abstract

The stability of gases in sampling bags affects the reliability of analyses performed in the Institute’s laboratories. This project was therefore undertaken, as part of the IRSST’s quality control program, to examine the effect of storage time, bag composition, and temperature on the stability of various gas mixtures in sampling bags. Gas mixtures were prepared in four commonly-used sampling bags, according to the method recommended by the International Standardization Organization (ISO). The majority of the mixtures were analyzed by gas-phase chromatography.

Significant hydrocarbon loss was observed in all bags studied. In addition, some types of bags had defective valves. The effect of temperature fluctuations on the storage characteristics of the bags were determined. Finally, the most appropriate bags for use in the sampling and storage of gases and gas mixtures typically analyzed by the IRSST were identified.