Understanding soil flux is crucial for climate change research, as biological and non-biological processes in the soil are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Wetlands, forests, and similar natural ecosystems uniquely serve as both GHG emission sources and sinks depending on various influencing factors. Wetlands often act as sinks for carbon dioxide and account for approximately 20% of global methane emissions. Forests generally absorb over 20% of global carbon dioxide emissions but can become emission sources due to deforestation, forest fires, and other disruptions. Conservation scientists use this knowledge to support conservation efforts and improve our understanding of these environments’ contributions to climate regulation.

Challenges in natural ecosystem research

Handling equipment logistics in the field

Transporting multiple accessories into the field for manual sampling is a challenge for practicalities, data reliability and cost handling:

Extremely remote sites Test sites often are located in hard to reach parts and require variety of traversing options
Manual sampling equipment Manual sampling methods require a large amount of equipment. : Field analyzers may require additional accessories such as pumps, filters, power sources, and data collection devices.
Error sources Manual sample handling introduces many error sources that reduce data quality. Differences in sample gathering methods among researchers make data less repeatable, and high training demands are placed on all researchers to ensure consistent sample gathering.
Elevated operating costs Manual sampling is costly, with challenges in storing samples safely at remote sites and reliably transporting them to labs. External lab processing fees are also high.
Laboratory design Lab-designed analyzers often produce unstable results in the field due to vibration and orientation issues. They may need extra accessories for reliable operation in field conditions.
Variable climate conditions Different environments, from tropical to polar, require specific design specifications for field analyzers. Some tests need fixed, sheltered analyzers, while others need portable solutions. Special configurations like enhanced filtration and heated sampling might be necessary.

 

Support multiple research studies with same equipment

Analysis equipment that can measure all desired emissions are few and far between.

Gas flux measurement Gas fluxes are influenced by carbon and nitrogen cycles, often requiring multiple analyzers or sensors to measure all relevant gases in the field.
Method refinement Obtaining desired data may require adjusting measurement methods or adding new gases, which can be challenging due to equipment limitations during remote site visits.
Chamber variety Common chamber types include plant growth, floating, opaque, static vs. automation. Measuring desired data often requires accounting for various chamber sizes, shapes, sampling times, and positions, adding complexity to the research setup.

Benefits of portable analyzers for research work

Natural ecosystem research often takes place in remote and challenging environments. Gasmet’s portable FTIR analyzers are specifically designed to tackle these challenges effectively. Our analyzers provide stable, lab-quality results on-site, eliminating the need for manual sampling and the complex logistics of transporting samples to a lab. This not only saves significant time but also allows researchers to focus on data analysis rather than sample handling.

The rugged design of the GT5000 Terra ensures reliable performance even in tough conditions, such as bumpy roads or harsh weather. Its portability and durability mean it can handle various field conditions without compromising accuracy. Additionally, the GT5000 Terra and other Gasmet analyzers are universally compatible with both manual and automated chamber systems, offering unmatched versatility for different research setups.

Gasmet instruments excel in multi-gas measurements, providing simultaneous readings of compounds such as CH4, CO2, N2O, NH3, CO, and H2O vapor. This capability provided by FTIR technology, ensures comprehensive data collection across various gases in a single setup, eliminating the need for multiple analyzers. With an internal battery and portable design, our analyzers support high-frequency measurements across various times and locations, making them ideal for both short-term and long-term studies.

Customer case: Read how Advanced gas detection technology supports arctic greenhouse gas research

 

Applications in wetland research

Gasmet instruments are invaluable for a wide range of wetland research applications, including:

  • Studying carbon sequestration processes within wetland ecosystems.
  • Quantifying the contributions of wetlands to local and national carbon budgets.
  • Building models to calculate regional carbon budgets based on gathered data.
  • Monitoring the effects of climate change, land use, and nearby agricultural practices on GHG emissions.

Our analyzers have proven their worth in the hands of researchers around the globe. Take dive into of handpicked research studies powered with Gasmet analyzers. Environmental research publications

 

GT5000 Terra – Our solution for soil flux measurements in natural ecosystems

GT5000 Terra can measure all gases of your interest simultaneously, saving you time and money. Connect it to almost any chamber systems and your good to go. Equipped with wireless communication, you can get your measurement results in real-time on your laptop or tablet. Portability makes it especially effective in field conditions.

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DX4015 – Our solution for soil flux measurements in humid ecosystems

DX4015 can be used for measuring gases in wet conditions (such as greenhouse gases from a swamps and wetlands). The analyzer can be powered with 12 VDC from for example an external battery, so it can easily be used in field conditions where mains power is not available.

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