Baseline-MOCON Adds New 9.6eV White Label To piD-TECH Plus Photoionization Sensor Series For More Selective VOC Analysis

Baseline-MOCON, Inc., a subsidiary of MOCON has launched its White Label piD-TECH plus photoionization sensor at Pittcon 2009 in Chicago, IL. The White Label represents a new 9.6eV addition to Baseline-MOCON's line of patented piD-TECH plus photoionization sensors for portable and stationary gas monitors.

The new White Label piD-TECH plus addresses the need in the refinery and petrochemical markets for a sensor that is more selective towards chemicals with lower ionization potentials such as Benzene. The White Label is available in all three of our current sensor ranges (ppb=parts per billion; ppm=parts per million):

• piD-TECH plus Black Label 50 ppb to 2,000 ppm
• piD-TECH plus Bronze Label 25 ppb to 200 ppm
• piD-TECH plus Silver Label 5 ppb to 20 ppm

The new generation sensors are ideal for instrumentation manufacturers who want to add state-of-the art, low-level volatile organic compound (VOC) detection to their portable or stationary monitor. The piD-TECH plus line sets a new standard by being able to measure concentrations lower than previously possible with other comparably-sized sensors.

By optimizing the components, the units now offer a broader dynamic range and are the least sensitive to humidity vs. other PID sensors. (Humidity interferes with accurate gas measurement.) Improvements in the gold cell production process also results in a more robust offering with better cell surface characteristics.

When Baseline-MOCON engineered the new series, its goal was to achieve electrical entity parameters (voltage, current, capacitance, etc.) that would allow operation in a hazardous environment.

As a result, the entire line has passed Underwriter's Laboratories "certified component" requirements. This reduces the steps manufacturers have to take to obtain an "intrinsically-safe" certification rating for instruments using piD-TECH plus sensors. Further, Baseline-MOCON is ISO 9001:2000 certified.

Additional features include a compact design which makes it easier than ever before to integrate this type of gas-measuring sensor into multi-use, portable instruments. The sensor has been designed with an industry-standard footprint and power requirements. The piD-TECH plus also features a cap locking feature so that the gas entry port will always be aligned in the proper position for easier service.

The series is based on a photoionization detector (PID). The sample gas is exposed to an ultraviolet lamp. The energy emitted by the lamp ionizes and excites the targeted gases in the sample so they can be detected by the instrument and reported as a concentration. Chemicals with an ionization potential less than the eV of the lamp, including many VOCs, will be detected by photoionization.

Ideal applications are gas analyzers which target industrial hygiene and safety monitoring; soil contamination and remediation; HAZMAT sites and spills; low-concentration leak detection; EPA Method 21 and emissions monitoring and arson investigations.

About Baseline-MOCON, Inc.
Baseline-MOCON, Inc., first established in 1969 as Baseline Industries Incorporated, was acquired by MOCON in 2001. Baseline-MOCON is known as an industry leader in the development and manufacture of gas analyzers. The company's analyzers employ several principals of gas analysis and detection technology, including gas chromatography and continuous monitors based on flame ionization and photoionization detectors.

The product line also includes a variety of complimentary products such as multipoint samplers, calibration systems, sample conditioners, support gas generators, and data acquisition systems. Designed for optimum reliability, compactness and operational simplicity, Baseline products meet the growing demand for environmental, toxic gas monitoring, mud logging during oil and gas exploration, and industrial gas analysis.

MOCON is a leading provider of instrumentation and consulting and laboratory services to medical, pharmaceutical, food and other industries worldwide.

SOURCE: Baseline - MOCON, Inc.