KOMYO RIKAGAKU t-Butanol (tert-Butanol) Quick-Response Gas Detection Tube, Model 111U@

Overview

The KOMYO RIKAGAKU t-Butanol (tert-Butanol) Quick-Response Gas Detection Tube (Model 111U@) is a calibrated, single-use colorimetric dosimeter designed for on-site, real-time qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis of vapor-phase tert-butanol in ambient or workplace air. Engineered according to the classical length-of-stain principle, the tube contains a proprietary solid-phase reagent bed immobilized within calibrated borosilicate glass tubing. Upon manual aspiration of a fixed air volume (typically 100 mL using the AP-20 pump), tert-butanol vapor reacts selectively with the reagent, inducing a discrete, irreversible color front progression along the tube’s internal scale. The endpoint position—measured in millimeters from the inlet—is directly correlated to concentration via NIST-traceable calibration curves established under ISO 8519:2021-compliant validation protocols. This method delivers rapid field assessment without power, electronics, or calibration gases—ideal for emergency response, industrial hygiene screening, leak verification, and confined-space entry pre-checks.

Key Features

• Two-range dual-scale calibration: Primary range 10–300 ppm (1 mm = 3 ppm); extended low-range 4–120 ppm (1 mm = 1.2 ppm) for enhanced sensitivity near occupational exposure limits.
• Pre-calibrated, lot-specific traceability: Each production batch undergoes inter-laboratory verification against gravimetrically prepared tert-butanol standards; certificate of analysis includes uncertainty budget per ISO/IEC 17025.
• Robust physical design: 5.0 mm inner diameter × 130 mm length borosilicate glass tube with laser-etched scale (±0.2 mm resolution) and hermetically sealed end caps ensuring shelf stability.
• Compatible with universal AP-20 dual-stroke hand pump (sold separately): Delivers precise 100 mL ±5% aspiration volume per double stroke; pump meets EN 13325:2012 mechanical durability requirements.
• No cross-sensitivity to common interferents: Validated against ethanol, acetone, isopropanol, and methyl ethyl ketone at concentrations up to 500 ppm; <5% signal deviation observed.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The 111U@ tube is validated for use in ambient air, indoor workplace atmospheres, and exhaust duct sampling (with appropriate dilution if required). It complies with Japanese Industrial Standard JIS K 0117:2020 (Gas detection tubes – General requirements) and aligns with OSHA Method PV2126 for volatile organic compound screening. While not intended for regulatory compliance reporting per EPA Method TO-17 or ISO 16017-1, it satisfies preliminary assessment criteria under AIHA RP-1:2023 (Field Screening for Organic Vapors) and supports GLP-aligned documentation workflows when used with AP-20 pump log sheets and digital photo capture of stain endpoints.

Software & Data Management

As an analog, non-electronic device, the 111U@ tube requires no firmware, drivers, or software integration. However, endpoint readings may be digitally documented via KOMYO’s free K-Log mobile application (iOS/Android), which enables timestamped photo capture, geotagging, automatic scale alignment correction, and export to CSV/PDF reports compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 audit trail requirements when paired with enterprise identity management. Laboratory quality control records—including tube lot numbers, expiration dates, pump calibration logs, and operator IDs—are recommended for traceability in ISO 9001-certified environments.

Applications

• Routine monitoring of tert-butanol storage areas, blending tanks, and solvent recovery units in pharmaceutical and fine chemical manufacturing.
• Emergency response to spills or container breaches involving tert-butanol-based cleaners, paint thinners, or polymerization inhibitors.
• Verification of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) effectiveness during maintenance or process changeovers.
• Worker exposure assessment during cleaning-in-place (CIP) operations where tert-butanol serves as a residue removal agent.
• Baseline screening prior to deployment of fixed photoionization detectors (PID) or gas chromatography systems.

FAQ

What is the shelf life of Model 111U@, and how should it be stored?

Unopened tubes retain accuracy for 24 months from the date of manufacture when stored at 5–30 °C in original packaging, protected from light and humidity. Do not refrigerate.

Can this tube be reused after sampling?

No. The 111U@ is a single-use, disposable device. Color development is irreversible; reaspiration will yield erroneous results due to reagent depletion and diffusion artifacts.

Is training required to achieve reliable results?

Yes. Users must complete KOMYO-certified field operator training covering pump technique, endpoint interpretation, environmental correction factors (temperature/pressure), and interference recognition. Competency assessment is recommended quarterly.

Does this tube meet ATEX or IECEx certification for hazardous areas?

The tube itself carries no intrinsic ignition risk and may be used in Zone 2/22 areas when handled with non-sparking tools. However, it is not certified as explosion-proof equipment; the AP-20 pump requires separate ATEX approval (e.g., AP-20-ATEX variant) for use in classified locations.