MicroTube Phosgene 10-1000 ppb | Draeger

The Dräger MicroTube for Phosgene is a single-use, colorimetric detection tube designed for fast, on‑site measurement of phosgene (COCl₂) in air at very low concentrations. The tube chemistry produces a distinct color change proportional to phosgene concentration when a measured volume of air is drawn through the tube using a compatible hand pump. The MicroTube enables rapid screening, spot checks and verification of phosgene presence in industrial, emergency response, environmental and laboratory settings.

Key features

• Target analyte: Phosgene (COCl₂).

• Measurement range: 10–1000 ppb (0.01–1.0 ppm) (verify exact range & units with datasheet).

• Single‑use colorimetric tube — no on-site reagents to mix.

• Easy readout — sharp, calibrated color scale on the tube body for direct concentration readout.

• Fast response — typical measurement time is short (one or a few pump strokes depending on recommended sampling volume) (verify pump stroke count and sample volume with datasheet).

• Compatible with standard Dräger hand pumps and many stroke pumps commonly used for Draeger tubes (e.g., Dräger Accuro / Dräger Tube Pump family) — check compatibility.

• Compact, lightweight and portable — ideal for rapid field deployment and emergency teams.

• Shelf life and storage: long shelf life when stored in original packaging, away from moisture and heat (check exact shelf life and storage temperature in datasheet).

• Clear instructions printed on tube for field operation.

Typical application areas

• Industrial hygiene monitoring in chemical plants, refrigerant or solvent handling areas.

• Emergency response, hazmat screening and incident assessment.

• Verification of phosgene control measures, leak detection.

• Environmental spot checks and short-term monitoring during maintenance or process change.

How it works (principle)

The MicroTube contains a solid reagent that reacts specifically with phosgene to produce a colored stain. When a defined volume of air is pulled through the tube, phosgene present reacts and produces a color band whose length (or intensity, depending on tube design) is proportional to concentration. The tube has a calibrated scale that allows a direct readout (usually in ppb or ppm) without additional instruments.

Typical use procedure

1. Uncap the tube just before use. Inspect for damage.

2. Fit the tube into the compatible pump (arrow/marking shows flow direction).

3. Pull the specified number of pump strokes at an even pace to draw the recommended sample volume through the tube. (Follow printed instructions for stroke count and pumping speed.)

4. Remove the tube and read concentration at the color-change boundary/scale.

5. Dispose of used tube according to local waste regulations.

Performance considerations & limitations

• Detection limit & accuracy: colorimetric tubes give rapid qualitative/quantitative results suitable for screening; they are less precise than laboratory instruments (e.g., gas chromatographs or electrochemical monitors). Expect typical uncertainties consistent with colorimetric methods — consult datasheet for stated accuracy and repeatability.

• Interferences: certain reactive chlorinated compounds, phosgene decomposition products, or strongly oxidizing/reducing atmospheres may interfere. The datasheet lists known interfering compounds and cross-sensitivities — verify before critical decisions.

• Environmental effects: extreme temperatures, high humidity, and dusty or oily air can affect performance. Follow storage and operating temperature/humidity limits in manufacturer literature.

• Single‑use only. Reuse is not possible.

Safety and handling

• Handle tubes carefully — break glass ends only with appropriate end-capper or per instructions.

• Avoid inhalation of broken tube contents. Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, eye protection).

• Dispose of used tubes in accordance with local hazardous waste rules — used tubes may contain trapped toxic analyte and reacted reagents.

Packaging & part codes

• Sold in packs/bulk (e.g., 10, 25 or 50 tubes per box) (verify pack sizes & part number with datasheet).

• Each tube is individually sealed for shelf stability until opened.

Storage & shelf life

• Store in original sealed packaging. Protect from moisture, heat and direct sunlight.

• Typical shelf life for colorimetric tubes is often 18–36 months, but confirm the exact shelf life printed on the packaging or datasheet (verify exact shelf life and recommended storage temperature).

Advantages

• Rapid, low-cost field measurement without needing power or analytical instruments.

• Simple to use with minimal training.

• Small, portable and disposable — good for spot checks or many distributed measurements.

Disadvantages / when to use other methods

• For regulatory compliance, forensic analysis, continuous monitoring, or when high accuracy/trace quantification is required, use calibrated analytical instrumentation (GC/MS, FTIR, calibrated continuous monitors).

• Colorimetric tubes are best used for screening, quick checks, or as a complementary tool.