Micro gas chromatograph for harsh refinery gas environment: Microvalves based on PEEK membranes

In the context of refinery gas testing, we studied the potential of a micro-gas chromatograph (¿GC). For this purpose, we fabricated a new type of gas microvalve, based on a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) membrane, which is suitable for the harsh environment of natural gas. Experimental results are presented along with simulations to describe and discuss the static and dynamic behaviors of such a device.