Free Space Determination with Non-Helium Gases

Overview

Free space is conventionally measured using helium because it is nonadsorbing and does not condense at cryogenic temperatures. Helium is, however, relatively scarce on Earth and comes with a high price tag due to its limited availability and the costs associated with its extraction and purification. Despite its rarity, helium is widely used in scientific, medical, and industrial applications. Additionally, with few suppliers worldwide, unexpected disruptions can further compound to the challenges of procuring it.

Other gases like nitrogen and argon are more plentiful in the atmosphere and can be separated more readily. Therefore, they are generally more cost-effective compared to helium. Micromeritics is introducing a new feature on our gas adsorption instruments which allows operators to utilize gases other than helium for determining free space. This enhancement offers users increased flexibility and helps addresses procurement challenges.

Speaker

Thao Gastaldo

Thao Gastaldo

Thao graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She joined Micromeritics in mid 2008, initially working in the contract analytical lab where she gained extensive experience and knowledge with Micromeritics products. Over the years, Thao assumed diverse roles within the lab before transitioning to the Scientific Services team in mid 2022 as an Applications Scientist. In her current capacity, she provides support to both internal personnel and external clients regarding the Micromeritics product line.

Tony Thornton

Tony Thornton

Senior Product Scientist Director, Product Integrity and Performance

Tony  Thornton received both his B.S. degree in Chemistry (cum laude) and his M.S. degree in Analytical Chemistry from Emory University in Atlanta, in 1980. Tony’s research at Emory involved liquid chromatography, specifically the use of ion-pair chromatography and isocratic separation of catecholamines and metabolites. His work supported early research into potential treatment of Parkinson’s disease between Emory and the Veterans Administration hospital in Atlanta.
Tony has been a key member of the Micromeritics team since 1980, specifically evolving the study of particle sizing using liquid chromatography. Tony was also instrumental in developing the SediGraph, DigiSizer, and Elzone, and has made significant contributions to development of products for particle size, physisorption, chemisorption and pycnometer product lines. Most recently, Tony was the recipient of the ASTM International 2021 Cavanaugh Award. He was recognized for outstanding promulgation of standard test methods for powder characterization and for masterful leadership in international standards development organizations.

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