Multi-Component Gas Analyzer System

Multi-Component Gas Analyzer System (Multi-GAS) is an instrument package used to take real-time high-resolution measurements of volcanic gas plumes. A Multi-GAS comprises an Infra-Red spectrometer (CO₂), 2 electrochemical sensors (SO₂, H₂S), and pressure/temperature/humidity sensors, all in a weatherproof box weighing approximately 3 kg., as well as radio transmitters to transmit data to remote locations. The Multi-GAS instrument package is portable, and its operation and data analysis are simple enough to be conducted by non-specialists.

Multi-GAS instruments have been used to measure volcanic gas plumes at Mount Etna, Stromboli, Vulcano Italy, Villarrica (volcano) Chile, Masaya Volcano Nicaragua, Mount Yasur and Ambrym Vanuatu, Miyake-jima and Mount Asama Japan, Soufrière Hills Montserrat, with permanent installations at Etna and Stromboli.

Multi-GAS measurements of CO₂/SO₂ ratios can allow detection of the pre-eruptive degassing of rising magmas, improving prediction of volcanic activity.

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