Gas Adsorption & Desorption Isotherms - Porosimetry & Surface Area Analysis

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SC3 Test: Porosimetry by nitrogen gas adsorption / desorption. 

Pore size distribution, pore volume distribution and pore area distribution

Full gas adsorption / desorption isotherms are provided by MCA Services using a state-of-the-art Micromeritics TriStar 3020^TM instrument. These are conducted using nitrogen gas which is dosed very precisely for both adsorption and desorption processes to generate highly accurate isotherm data for the sample material. In addition to the isotherm data, this technique offers a full porosimetry testing method through the provision of pore size distribution, pore area distribution and pore volume data. These are  reported as standard with this analysis together with the multipoint BET surface area of the sample. Typically pore sizes in the range 0.55 nm to 350 nm diameter are measured by this technique, although this may be extended to larger pore sizes depending on the nature of the sample. The SC3 test is, therefore, ideal for the characterisation of microporous and mesoporous materials and may be combined further with mercury porosimetry (our SC11 test) to cover the complete range of micro pores through to macro pores at approximately 600 μm.

 
Results are generally emailed as PDF files to speed up transmission to the client. In addition, we offer assistance with interpretation of results at no extra charge. MCA Services provides clients with a broad range of data as standard for this technique, including:  

• Graphical gas isotherm plot for adsorption and desorption

• Multi point BET surface area plot

• Multi point BET surface area data

• Tabulated gas adsorption and desorption data (including pore size, pore area and pore volume distribution)

• Cumulative pore area / pore size distribution (graphical and tabulated)

• Differential pore area / pore size distribution (graphical and tabulated)

• Cumulative pore volume / pore size distribution (graphical and tabulated)

• Differential pore volume / pore size distribution (graphical and tabulated)

For more specialised porosimetry testing, alternative reports and data analyses can also be included on request. The data above may be derived from the adsorption isotherm or desorption isotherm depending on client preference. 

 MCA Services has considerable expertise in the field of porosimetry and gas adsorption isotherms and we often work alongside our clients on specialised projects. If these activities are of interest, then please contact our staff who will be happy to advise and discuss the options available.

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Pore area and pore size distribution from gas adsorption isotherm

For the generation of accurate pore size distribution, pore volume and pore area data it is imperative that samples are degassed prior to analysis. MCA Services can accommodate a wide range of conditions for this which may be combined to suit the individual requirements of our clients. Degassing temperatures up to 200˚C under vacuum or 400˚C with flowing nitrogen or helium gas can be applied. Such activities are usually conducted at MCA Services immediately prior to analysis as part of  standard procedure.

A standard specimen report for the full analysis of sample porosity through gas adsorption is available in PDF format, Please contact MCA Services for a copy.