Trace gas analyzer for N20 emissions from agricultural systems

The air quality monitoring instrumentation to be purchased as part of this Research Tools and Instruments grant will support several components of Dr. Robert Gordon's rural water and air quality research program. The requested equipment includes a tunable gas analyzer (TGA) for nitrous oxide and selected components for using the TGA as part of a eddy covariance system for surface flux measurements. The TGA measures trace gas concentration in an air sample using tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy. It is a rugged, portable instrument designed for use in the field. Common applications include gradient or eddy covariance flux measurements. The TGA has allows for in situ measurements of nitrous oxide. Dr. Gordon will use will this instrumentation as part of several on-farm air quality studies. This instrumentation will immediately contribute to the training of a number of graduate students with several additional highly qualified personnel provided access over the next 5 years. The research programs that this equipment will support are focused on developing air quality management strategies that will ensure the sustainability of the agricultural industry and protection of the environment.