Abstract
Measurement of greenhouse gas (GHG) flux using static chamber methods typically occurs immediately following sample collection. However, situations may arise requiring sample storage prior to analysis by gas chromatography. The objective of this study was to determine effects of storage time and temperature on carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) concentrations in vials containing “low” and “high” concentrations of certified standards. Samples were stored for 3, 7, 14, 28, and 84 days at four storage temperatures: room temperature, 25?°C, 4?°C, and -10?°C. Results indicated low and high concentration standards were not impacted by sample storage up to 28 days at any storage temperature. After 84 days, CO2 concentrations were 0.6–14.4% lower than expected while CH4 concentrations were up to 22% greater than expected. Results from future studies will allow for further refinement of scientifically supported guidance regarding appropriate storage temperature and time of GHG samples.•Few studies have examined impacts of storage time and temperature on GHG samples retained in traditional septa-capped vials.•Effects of storage time and temperature on GHG samples were examined.•Based on this study, GHG samples can be stored for up to 28 days at temperatures ranging from -10?°C to 25?°C.
Highlights
Due to the lack of studies documenting effects of storage time and temperature on greenhouse gas (GHG) samples available in peer-reviewed literature or guidance documents, the objective of this study was to determine effects of storage time and temperature on carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) in septa-capped vials. This will be the first study to systematically evaluate a broad range of both storage temperatures and times, will improve reliability of GHG values reported in the literature, and provide guidance for appropriate storage temperature and time for GHG samples
Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) concentrations of a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Global Monitoring Division certified “low” blended standard for different storage temperatures and storage times (3, 7, 14, 28, and 84 days)
Based on results of this study, it is recommended that GHG samples in Exetainer vials with chlorobutyl septa be stored no longer than 28 days before analysis for CO2, CH4, and N2O
Summary
The objective of this study was to determine effects of storage time and temperature on carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) concentrations in vials containing “low” and “high” concentrations of certified standards. Due to the lack of studies documenting effects of storage time and temperature on GHG samples available in peer-reviewed literature or guidance documents, the objective of this study was to
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