BACKGROUND
Subterranean mound-building termites produce the greenhouse gases carbon dioxide and methane (CO2 and CH4, respectively). For African, Australian, and South American taxa, these patterns have been well studied. However, North American termite gas emissions have not been defined in field settings, largely due to their uneven spatial distribution. Greenhouse gases are emitted out of soil from more sources than termites, and an accurate method of acquiring biogas measurements in field settings is needed to track the flux in associated biogas emission.
SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGY
OSU researchers have developed a novel device for capturing biogas flux in various settings. This flux chamber partially sits in the soil, allowing for gas to be collected in the chamber and sampled for analysis. This includes materials that prevent dilution of the gases, which is a major problem of many gas collection methods. This design also prevents pressure buildup, thermal interference with gas composition/pressure, and has a convenient access point for repeated sample collection. In addition to measuring biogas from termites, the chamber be easily modified to detect biogas production from pests in closed food storage settings such as grain silos. This will reduce wasted agricultural product and lower the number of pest-caused “hot spots”, which can increase the likelihood of a grain explosion.
POTENTIAL AREAS OF APPLICATION
- Measuring biogas flux from soil associated with termite activity;
- Detecting pest biogas buildup in grain or food storage enclosed facilities.
MAIN ADVANTAGES
- Does not contaminate or dilute gas samples, ensuring accuracy of analyses;
- Inexpensive, corrosion-resistant parts;
- Reusable setup;
- Can easily be transported between sites and used long-term.
STATE OF DEVELOPMENT
Several working models have been developed for soil biogas flux capture.