Instrumental Methods for the Detection of Higher Oxides of Nitrogen in Nitrous Oxide

Abstract

This paper discusses the possible application of instrumental methods used by the British Coal Utilisation Research Association for flue gas analysis to detect the contamination, by higher oxides of nitrogen, of nitrous oxide (N 3 O) intended for use as an anaesthetic. Two galvanic instruments sensitive to 1 p.pjn. v/v of nitrogen dioxide (NO 2)-or, when supplemented by a pre-oxidizer, of nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide (NO + NO a)-are described; either might be adapted to actuate an alarm. The methods are discussed in the light of governmental standards of air quality.