Design, Construction, and Evaluation of a Miniature Flame Ionization Detector (FID)

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.515721026140514

• Palavras-chave: gas chromatography; flame ionization detector; analytical instrumentation; equipment miniaturization; cost-benefit optimization.

• Keywords: gas chromatography; flame ionization detector; analytical instrumentation; equipment miniaturization; cost-benefit optimization.

• Abstract:

  The evolution of contemporary analytical instrumentation has prioritized the development of ultra-high-performance equipment, with detection limits in the trace range (µg/L or ppb). However, the high complexity and the acquisition and maintenance costs of these systems make their adoption unfeasible for educational institutions and small laboratories, whose routine demands often require quantifications in the mg/L (ppm) range. The use of ultra-sophisticated equipment for primary controls results in a disproportionate cost-benefit ratio. To address this technological gap, this article reports on the development and evaluation of an efficient, portable, and low-cost mini-flame ionization detector (FID). The design is based on optimized physicochemical principles, employing a micro-combustion system adapted from conventional technologies (mini-torch) to ensure a stable and long-lasting flame. The design drastically reduces the consumption of fuel and oxidizing gases (hydrogen/oxygen), which not only facilitates the miniaturization of the system but also significantly mitigates the risk of explosion compared to commercial counterparts. The results demonstrate that the prototype exhibits sensitivity and selectivity parameters perfectly comparable to conventional systems within its range of application. The proposed device thus establishes itself as a safe and economically viable instrumental alternative, capable of democratizing access to chromatographic analysis in educational routines and primary laboratory controls.