A fast and efficient GC-BID approach for the simultaneous analysis of H₂, CO, CH₄, and CO₂ in vehicle exhaust

Accurate monitoring of vehicular exhaust gases is fundamental for emission reduction and the advancement of cleaner technologies. However, conventional methods for analyzing these gases have limitations related to sensitivity, interferences, and, in some cases, the need for derivatization. In this study, the aim is to develop a chromatographic method based on gas chromatography with barrier discharge ionization for the rapid, sensitive, and simultaneous determination of H₂, CO, CH₄, and CO₂. An exhaust sample from a motorcycle was collected in a 1 L Tedlar bag, aliquots were diluted with atmospheric air using an adjustable volume graduated flask, and 0.1 mL was analyzed by GC-BID. The method demonstrated excellent selectivity, precision (1.27 to 6.22%), and accuracy (90.81 to 102.5%). Application to exhaust gas samples revealed that CO₂ (106,388 ppm_v) is predominant in the studied sample, and CO concentrations (54,189 ppm_v) were about 11 times above the regulatory limit, consistent with the older vehicle model analyzed. This method represents an efficient and sustainable alternative for emission analysis and environmental monitoring.