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MCTE

Micro-chamber sampling

Microchambers are compact, stand-alone test chamber units that allow rapid sampling of vapour-phase organic compounds from a product or material, complementing small-scale chamber testing by third-party laboratories. Microchamber sampling is a type of dynamic headspace sampling and a powerful tool for increasing laboratory productivity. The technique is usually used in combination with sorbent tubes and off-line thermal desorption–GC–MS.

Applications for microchamber sampling include:

  • Quality-control of chemical emissions from products and materials, such as construction materials
  • Screening of products prior to long-term certification tests e.g. consumer products
  • Checking raw materials.
  • Comparing products to those of competitors.
  • Monitoring odour and emission profiles e.g. car trim.
    • Kinetic studies such as shelf-life tests or monitoring aroma or fragrance profiles as they change over time for the food and consumer industries.

Benefits of microchamber sampling

  • No sample preparation needed – simply place the material in the chamber.
  • A constant flow of heated air or gas ensures rapid production of a representative VOC/SVOC profile.
  • Results can be correlated with longer-term reference methods.
  • Construction from inert-coated stainless steel ensures compatibility with reactive or thermally labile chemicals.
  • Accessories allow surface-only sampling or permeation testing.
  • No pump required – avoids set-up and calibration.

Microchamber sampling products

Microchamber products available from Markes International include:

Micro-Chamber/Thermal Extractor

Micro-Chamber/Thermal Extractor accessories