Methods for in situ Chemical Analyses of Snow and Ice Samples

• Main Authors: Kokichi Kamiyama, Takeshi Kimoto, Shuichi Ezumi, Eiichiro Nakayama, Okitsugu Watanabe
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: National Institute of Polar Research 1994-03-01
• Series: Antarctic Record
• Online Access: http://doi.org/10.15094/00008840

Chemical analytical methods for snow and ice samples are discussed for the procedure in situ, taking field environments into consideration. To obtain information in situ on the chemical features of snow and ice samples will contribute greatly to field activities, because we can use the information to determine the sampling duration to match the natural environment. The utility of the ion exchange filter, for decreasing the sample volume to be carried back to the laboratory and for simplifying the pre-treatment for gross-β measurement, is discussed. Small systems for chemical determinations are also discussed. Small ion chromatography systems for measuring anions (F^-, (CH_3COO)^-, (HCOO)^-, (CH_3SO_3)^-, (SO_4)^<2->, (C_2O_4)^<2->, (NO_3)^-) with small amount of sample have been developed. A simple system, suitable for in situ measurement of (NO_3)^-, is discussed although there is a little limit on the determination. Simple analytical systems for snow and ice samples, taking the field procedure into consideration, will be established in the near future with the development of these methods.