Solving Oxygen Contamination in a Glove Box with Clathrates

[AWood16]

I'm working with clathrate compounds in a glove box filled with Argon. My problem is that there always remains a small amount of oxygen in the glove box even after multiple purges. This oxygen binds and makes an oxide layer on my clathrates. I don't know how to avoid this and am trying to find some suggestions. My goal is to achieve a pure clathrate to measure thermodynamic data with and this oxide layer throws all my data off. Thanks!

 

[Danger]

If this is a pumping problem, have you tried introducing chemicals to absorb or adsorb the remaining oxygen after the argon is sealed in?

 

[Astronuc]

How much oxygen, or rather what is the level of oxygen in the Ar atmosphere. In such cases, one might use a chemical reaction to bind the oxygen, e.g., a getter such as a heated Ti or Zr metal in the form of a mesh, or one could use cracked ammonia for a reducing atmosphere, but hydrogen is flammable or explosive.

 

[Q_Goest]

Try Googling "oxygen getter".

For example: http://pureguard.net/cm/Library/Getter_Purification.html

 

[alphy]

I understand the frustration of dealing with oxygen contamination in a glove box, especially when working with sensitive compounds like clathrates. One potential solution to this problem could be to use a more efficient purging method, such as using a vacuum pump to remove all traces of oxygen from the glove box before introducing the clathrates. Additionally, you could try using a different inert gas, such as nitrogen, which has a lower oxygen content compared to argon. Another approach could be to use a gas purification system, which can remove impurities like oxygen from the gas supply before it enters the glove box. It may also be helpful to regularly monitor the oxygen levels in the glove box and adjust the purging frequency accordingly. I would also recommend consulting with other experts in the field or conducting further research on techniques for removing oxygen in glove boxes. With determination and the right strategies, I am confident that you will be able to achieve your goal of obtaining pure clathrates for accurate thermodynamic measurements.