Analysis of Trace Contaminants Contained in Samples from a Closed Environment at 258 mm. hg

摘要

The report describes the equipment and methods of analysis used in determining the compositions of cryogenically trapped samples taken from a manned simulated space cabin. Approximately 96 compounds were identified and quantitatively measured in samples taken at daily intervals, from the Aerospace Medical Division's experiment SMBE 66-2. Gas chromatography using flame ionization with isothermal and temperature-programmed column conditions was used for qualitative and quantitative analysis. In addition, each sample was analyzed by mass spectrometry to verify the chromatographic data and to provide qualitative information on unexpected sample components. A special low-volume sampling system containing a dehydrating agent, coupled with rapid spectral scanning, provided the needed mass spectrometer sensitivity. The data from mass spectrometry and gas chromatography have been Fortran-coded for future analytical services. (Author)