COMPARISON OF INFRARED AND QUADRUPOLE MASS SPECTROMETER MEASUREMENTS OF CARBON DIOXIDE IN CAVE ENVIRONMENTS

An in depth analysis was performed to determine the ability of a quadrupole mass spectrometer (QMS) to take realistic measurements in harsh cave environments for atmospheric study and isotope analysis during the fall of 2011. To see if the measurements from the QMS were reflective of the actual cave environment, an infrared carbon dioxide detector was also used to collect data concurrently.

Both outside and inside measurements of atmospheres were taken to determine if there was a percent change in carbon dioxide between the locations. A significant difference in the percent change calculated between the two instruments was detected.

The QMS is fitted with a filter to keep water out of the instrument. This may cause humidity and temperature to play a role in the difference observed. Data for temperature and humidity taken during the initial data collections were examined, and results will show if a correlation has been found. Results will provide feedback for further instrumentation development in cave environments.