How do I analyze 17 different gases from a sample? I am designing a test setup in which I heat a battery until it releases its gases, and I need to analyze the composition of the fumes. Below is the list of gases that are believed to be present in the battery's fumes. I was planning on just using a bunch of gas detection tubes, but they don't seem to be available for all these gases. I was thinking about moving on to buying a gas chromatograph instead since, so far, it seems cheaper than getting a bunch of tests, but I have never used a GC, so I don't know if this would even work for so many gases.
If I were to go the GC route, what would I need to learn and buy in order to test for these gases? Is there a handbook that demonstrates the proper setups for different gases since I think you need to change some physical components for proper testing of different gases (I didn't find any)? Or is there a better method to test for this?
You could use a permanent gas analyzer that has an FID channel for hydrocarbons and CO2, with a TCD detector for H2 and HF and a third MS channel if needed. Basically, this would mean you split your sample into three different columns in the oven to analyze them for different things. I agree with Karl and don't reinvent the wheel. I've done the hydrocarbons (C1-12) and CO2 and permanent gases using a Thermo Trace 1310 with an FID and TCD detector and would recommend that for ease of use. Then I would probably add an MS detector to it in case you need it.
How are you hoping to get the battery gases into the GC? I think you could fit a battery into a headspace vial and heat it up to release the gases then directly inject the headspace into the GC.