CO2 and H2O Gas Analyzers
The heart and soul of any photosynthesis system is the analyzer. Accurate, reliable and stable measurement and control of CO2 and H2O is critical for high level research. The CIRAS-3 is a “true differential analyzer” featuring 4 independent, non-dispersive gas analyzers for accurate, simultaneous measurement and control of both CO2 and H2O. This is a significant advantage over “gas switching” systems and a major requirement for most researchers. For enhanced reliability, there are no moving parts such as chopper motors or filter wheels. The gas analyzers include an infrared source, highly polished, gold plated sample cells and detectors that are optimized for CO2 (4.26 µm) and H2O (2.60 µm). The analyzers act as absorptiometers measuring infrared absorption only. The optical bench is temperature controlled and pressure compensated ensuring the most accurate measurement of CO2 and H2O under changing ambient conditions. Measurement Ranges
- CO2: 0-10000 µmol mol-1
- H2O: 0-Dewpoint
Calibration The design of the CIRAS-3 ensures an inherent calibration stability that has been confirmed by over 35 years of experience in gas analysis technology. The CIRAS-3 features an innovative Auto-Zero function that allows for fast warm-up, adaptation to changing ambient conditions and excellent stability. In short, you can expect your calibration to be accurate, reliable and stable for many years without the need for time consuming, expensive recalibration. The Auto-Zero function minimizes effects on span (gas sensitivity) of sample, source aging, changes in detector sensitivity and changes in pre-amplifier gain. Periodic system checks are simple and recommended to confirm system integrity and calibration.
Environmental Control
The level of environmental control in the field with the CIRAS-3 is unsurpassed. The CIRAS-3 offers complete, independent and automatic control of CO2, H2O, temperature and light for response curves (i.e. A/Ci curves, light response, etc.) with fast time response. Control over all environmental parameters can be dynamic or pre-programmed for automated response curve generation. All power required for environmental control is provided by the internal rechargeable Li-ion battery (no external power supply is required).
CO2 Control – Unlike some systems, automatic CO2 control is standard with the CIRAS-3. Our innovative, integral gas blender and regulator mixes pure CO2 provided by mini CO2 cartridges (8 g) with CO2 free air to provide a very accurate, stable, continuous and constant flow of CO2. Each CO2 cartridge is capable of providing up to a minimum of 12 hours continuous use. It is very easy to change out cartridges and there is little to no maintenance required for the CO2gas blender or regulator.
- CO2 Control Range: 0-2000 umol mol-1
H2O Control – On-board, self-indicating desiccants are used for conditioning the H2O concentrations per user selected intervals.
- H2O Control Range: 0-Dewpoint
Measurements above ambient are also easily achieved.
Temperature Control – Automatic, accurate and stable temperature control is standard and integral with all leaf cuvettes. Peltier elements are mounted to the head along with heat sink and fans for precise control of temperature over a wide range. The user has the ability to disable temperature control, track ambient or to control at a set temperature.
- Temperature Control Range: ~10 oC below ambient to 15 oC above ambient
- Ambient Temperature Limits: 0-45 oC