A closed pentane trap for separation of SO₂ from CO₂ for precise δ ¹⁸O and &delta ³⁴S measurements

Abstract

Some practical aspects of a closed n-pentane trap used for separation of SO₂ from CO₂ and vice versa for precise δ¹⁸O and δ³⁴S measurements are described. It is a cold finger sealed inside a large-diameter glass tube that is filled with n-pentane. This trap has several advantages (1) complete separation of the two gases within a few of minutes, (2) no fire risk because the inflammable pentane is present in a closed system, (3) low cost because the pentane in the trap will never evaporate, and (4) ease of use.