CHN Analyzers

CHN Analyzers are scientific instruments used in elemental analysis of Carbon, Hydrogen and Nitrogen (CHN) specifically. Most modern implementations of CHN Analyzers are also capable of determination of Oxygen (O) and Sulfur (S) composition as well.

In the following post we attempt to give an overview of several popular brands of CHN Analyzers.
Disclaimer: This is not a commercial or any other kind of endorsement of these brands or instruments. We are not compensated by the manufacturers or their agents in any way to publish this overview. We avoid any explicit comparisons of the instruments. Please use your own due diligence. All trademarks are of the respective companies.

Thermo Finnigan EA 1112

Thermo Finnigan EA 1112 Series Flash Elemental Analyzer

This analyzer measures the amount of C, H, N, O, and S in samples by the rapid combustion of small amounts (1-2 mg) of the sample in pure oxygen (Dumas method or "flash combustion"). Catalysts are present at high temperature of around 1800^o Celsius.

The products of combustion are sent through a packed chromatographic column. The column converts the products into combination of NO₂,CO₂,SO₂,H₂O. These simple compounds are then measured using a thermal conductivity detector.

The calibration is performed by analyzing standard compounds with K-factors calculations. The analysis of all elements in the CHNS/O group is performed simultaneously. Time of full analysis cycle is less than 10 minutes. The high precision micro scale has resolution of 0.1 microgram and works with samples of up to 4-5 milligram.

One interesting feature is special system of calculating the precise amount of Oxygen necessary for full combustion of the sample. The Oxygen is automatically cut at that pre-calculated amount. This feature helps to prolong the life of catalysts and reduce cost.

Manufacturer: ThermoFisher Scientific

Exeter Analytical CE-440

Exeter Analytical CE-440 CHN Analyzer

This analyzer also measures amounts of Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, Oxygen, and Sulfur by flash combustion of small samples (normally 1-5 mg) in pure oxygen. Catalysts are present at high temperature of 1800^o Celsius.

The samples are placed in special aluminum or tin capsules and injected into combustion chamber. The combustion process is computer-monitored and a burst of oxygen is added at the end to ensure full combustion. The combustion products are sent through reagents and yield the mix of Nitrogen oxides,CO₂,H₂O. The reagents are also used to remove residual intereferences. Then the oxygen is removed and the oxydes are reduced to elemental Nitrogen. Each element is quantified separately by passing the gases through a series of dedicated thermal conductivity detectors (TCD).

Full analysis cycle takes less than 5 minutes. 64 sample carousel. Analytical sensitivity is less than 1 microgram and works with samples from 1-5 milligram up to 500 milligram.

Computer (Windows)-based system provides constant monitoring of the process and continuous diagnostic.

Manufacturer: Exeter Analytical

PerkinElmer CHNS/O Analyzer

PerkinElmer 2400 II series CHNS/O Analyzer

2400 II series CHN Analyzer determines weight percent of C, H, N, O or S in a variety of sample types. The anayzer uses the same Pregl-Dumas method of analysis.

The samples are placed in consumable aluminum or tin capsules and injected into combustion chamber. 3 modes are available: CHN, CHNS, or Oxygen analysis. Users can optimize combustion conditions depending on the sample type and the analysis' needs. The combustion products are reduced to the mix of basic N₂, CO₂, H₂O and SO₂. The gases are then captured and homogenized at controlled pressure, volume and temperature. After homogenization the product gases travel through the frontal chromatography zone and elute. Each element is measured separately through several stages of thermal conductivity detectors.

CHN analysis cycle takes 6 minutes. CHNS analysis - 8 minutes. Oxygen analysis - 4 minutes. 60 sample feeder.

Analytical Range (mgs):
C 0.001 - 3.6
H 0.001 - 1.0
N 0.001 - 6.0
S 0.001 - 2.0
O 0.001 - 2.0

Computer (Windows)-based system provides constant monitoring of the process, continuous diagnostic and advanced calculations, such as heating valve, calculates solvent of crystallization or results on dry basis.

Accepts argon as a substitution for the system carrier gas insted of helium.

Manufacturer: PerkinElmer, Inc.

We do not sell CHN Analyzers and will not be able to provide you with a quote for these commonly used instruments. It would be wise to contact the respective manufacturers of this equipment.

However, if you are looking for CHN Analysis done for you,
then we can definitely help you.
Please tell us about your CHN Analysis needs.