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International Journal of Earth & Environmental Sciences Volume 3 (2018), Article ID 3:IJEES-149, 6 pages
https://doi.org/10.15344/2456-351X/2018/149
Original Article
In-Situ Measurement of Forrest Soil Gases using Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry

Timothy L. Porter1* and T. Randall Dillingham2

1University of Nevada Las Vegas, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
2Northern Arizona University, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Flagstaff, AZ, 86001, USA
Prof. Timothy L. Porter, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA; E-mail: tim.porter@unlv.edu
10 January 2018; 03 March 2018; 05 March 2018
Porter TL, Dillingham TR (2018) In-Situ Measurement of Forrest Soil Gases using Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry. Int J Earth Environ Sci 3: 149. doi: https://doi.org/10.15344/2456-351X/2018/149

Abstract

The net effect of forest soils on the overall atmospheric concentration of methane and carbon dioxide is complex and relies upon many different factors. The flux of these gases from the soils may vary significantly depending upon temperature, water content, soil compaction, soil composition, root structure within the soil, decaying forest components within the soil, and other factors. We have developed and tested a portable, battery powered quadrupole mass spectrometer that allows for in-situ, real time measurement of the concentration of gases in soils. This instrument allows for rapid, simultaneous quantification of methane, carbon dioxide, water vapor and other gases in the near surface region of the soils. Here, we have measured the concentrations of methane and carbon dioxide in the soils of the Coconino National Forest, comparing gas levels in regions of the forest that have been mechanically thinned vs. nearby regions that have been undisturbed.