Capabilities
The Atmospheric Analysis Facility for Trace Gases and Aerosols provides laboratories that follow UKAS and ISO accredited protocols (Lancaster) and/or research and experimental methods, aligned with accredited laboratory standards where these exist (Edinburgh). They are equipped for: (1) Preparation and coating of passive diffusion (ALPHA) and active denuder/filter samplers (DELTA, COTAG); (2) Sample extraction and analysis of NH3 by colorimetry (SEAL AA3) and flow injection analysis; (3) Analysis of other components by ion chromatography (Metrohm); (4) Analysis of volatile organic compounds with a gas chromatograph (GC-MS) coupled to a thermal desorption unit; (5) Bench space for innovation projects and student projects in sampling and analysis methods; (6) Testing of prototype sensors and samplers; (7) Calibration of flow meters and method development for other trace reactive gas analysis (e.g. HNO2, peroxyactely nitrate, HNO3 etc.).
Lifecycle
The Atmospheric Analysis Facility provides an ongoing service for UKCEH research. Instruments have a working life of usually 10 -15 years depending on use and specification. Equipment is maintained and replaced on a constant cycle, either at end-of-life or as newer technologies become available.
Uniqueness
The Atmospheric Analysis Facility provides essential analytical capabilities for UKCEH research, and is the only UK facility with an accredited method for the ammonium analysis for the atmospheric samplers. The laboratories are unique in the ambient ammonia and PM composition sampling analysis done routinely and use UKCEH registered design samplers as well as commercial ones. ALPHA, DELTA and COTAG sampling devices have been developed by UKCEH. Whilst the analytical instrumentation for the analyses of the extracts from these devices are not unique, our full workflow in sampler construction, their operation, sample preparation, extraction, analysis and quality assurance is unique. UKCEH sampling devices have been provided to project collaborators and sold to users.
Partners
No external partners help to operate the Atmospheric Analysis Facility for TGAs.
Access
Atmospheric Analysis Facility for Trace Gases and Aerosols are available to other research organisations, usually through project collaborations with UKCEH, or commercially
Location
Atmospheric Analysis Facilities for TGAs are based at UKCEH stations in Edinburgh and Lancaster.
Funding sources
UKRI-NERC National Capability funding: UK-SCaPE programme (LTSS), plus UKRI-NERC Discovery Science Grants.
Users
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Atmospheric Analysis Facilities are used by UKCEH staff and students, plus research collaborators.
Last updated
11 November 2022 16:17
