Abstract
A system has been developed for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of gases released from geologic samples upon crushing. The system includes a hydraulically-operated stainless-steel crusher through which helium flows. The released gases are fed directly into a gas chromatograph equipped with dual columns and helium ionization detectors. The chromatographic system is capable of separating and detecting H2, Ar, O2, N2, CO, CO2, light hydrocarbons, and water. Samples ranging in size from 5mg to 1OOOmg can be crushed and the released trapped gases analyzed. The crushing pressure (up to 32 kbar) allows efficient release of trapped gases. Depending on the nature of the sample, 85 to 100 percent of the trapped gases in the crushed sample are released. The newly-developed crushing technique eliminates previously identified problems associated with gases generated by the crusher and adsorption of the released gases by the newly generated surfaces of the crushed sample. The analytical system has a wide range of potential uses. To date meteorites, lunar rocks and soils, basalts, glasses, and minerals with both fluid and gas phase inclusions have been analyzed. Selected examples of experimental results are presented.
