Photoacoustic spectroscopy-based detector for measuring benzene and toluene concentration in gas and liquid samples

Here we present a novel instrument for on-line, automatic measurement of benzene and toluene concentration in gas and liquid samples produced in the natural gas industry. Operation of the instrument is based on the collection of analytes on an adsorbent, separation using a chromatographic column and detection by near-infrared diode laser-based photoacoustic spectroscopy. Sample handling, measurement and data evaluation are carried out fully automatically, using an integrated, programmable electronic unit. The instrument was calibrated in the laboratory for natural gas, nitrogen and liquid glycol samples, and tested under field conditions at a natural gas dehydration unit of the MOL Hungarian Oil and Gas Company. Minimum detectable concentrations (3σm−1) were found to be 2.5 µg l−1 for benzene and 4 µg l−1 for toluene in gas samples, while 1.5 mg l−1 for benzene and 3 mg l−1 for toluene in liquid samples, which is suitable for measuring benzene and toluene concentration in natural gas and glycol samples occurring at natural gas dehydration plants.