Multi-component gas analyzer system
Template:New unreviewed article The Multi-Component Gas Analyzer System (Multi-GAS) is an instrument package used to take real-time high-resolution measurements of volcanic gas plumes. [1] A Multi-GAS comprises an Infra-Red spectrometer (CO2), 2 electrochemical sensors (SO2, H2S), and pressure/temperature/humidity sensors, all in a weatherproof box weighing approximately 3 kg.[2], as well as radio transmitters to transmit data to remote locations. The Multi-GAS instrument package is portable, and its operation and data analysis are simple enough to be conducted by non-specialists. [3]
Multi-GAS instruments have been used to measure volcanic gas plumes at Mount Etna, Stromboli, Vulcano Italy, Villarrica Chile, Masaya Volcano Nicaragua, Mount Yasur and Ambrym Vanuatu, Miyake-jima and Mount Asama Japan, Soufrière Hills Montserrat, with permanent installations at Etna and Stromboli. [4]
Multi-GAS measurements of CO2/SO2 ratios can allow detection of the pre-eruptive degassing of rising magmas, improving prediction of volcanic activity. [5]
References
- ^ "Forecasting Etna eruptions by real-time observation of volcanic gas composition".
- ^ "Chemical mapping of a fumarolic field: La Fossa Crater, Vulcano Island (Aeolian Islands, Italy)".
- ^ "A new technique to estimate volcanic gas composition: plume measurements with a portable multi-sensor system".
- ^ "Volcanic gas monitoring, Ch 6 in Volcanism and Global Environmental Change".
- ^ "Forecasting Etna eruptions by real-time observation of volcanic gas composition".