What is a laboratory gas generator?
A laboratory gas generator is a device used to produce specific gases, typically for various laboratory applications, without the need for external gas cylinders. These generators are designed to provide a continuous and controlled supply of gases that are essential for laboratory experiments, research, and analytical processes. They offer several advantages over traditional gas cylinders, including convenience, safety, cost-effectiveness, and the elimination of gas storage and handling issues.
Laboratory gas generators are commonly used to produce gases such as:
Nitrogen (N2): Nitrogen gas generators produce high-purity nitrogen by separating nitrogen from the surrounding air. Nitrogen is often used for creating inert atmospheres, drying samples, and supporting various analytical techniques.
Hydrogen (H2): Hydrogen gas generators produce hydrogen gas, which is used as a carrier gas in gas chromatography and as a reducing agent in certain chemical reactions.
Oxygen (O2): Oxygen generators produce high-purity oxygen that can be used for experiments requiring controlled oxygen levels or for supporting combustion reactions.
Air: Some generators provide purified and dry compressed air, which is used for applications like sample preparation, instrument operation, and air-sensitive reactions.
Zero Air: Zero air generators produce ultra-pure air with extremely low levels of hydrocarbons and other impurities. This type of air is commonly used in gas chromatography to provide a baseline reference for analyzing samples.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Carbon dioxide generators produce controlled amounts of carbon dioxide gas, which is used in various laboratory processes such as cell culture incubation and environmental testing.
Laboratory gas generators work through various technologies, such as pressure swing adsorption (PSA) for nitrogen and hydrogen generation, membrane separation for nitrogen, and electrolysis for hydrogen. These technologies allow laboratories to generate the required gases on-demand, eliminating the need for storing and transporting gas cylinders.
The choice of a laboratory gas generator depends on the specific needs of the laboratory, the purity level required for the gas, the volume needed, and the applications it will be used for. While the initial investment for a gas generator might be higher than purchasing gas cylinders, the long-term benefits, including convenience, safety, and cost savings, make them a popular choice for modern laboratories.