Chimera
Automated CH₄ and CO₂ analysis for low-flow gas sources
Chimera automatically measures CH₄ and CO₂ from up to 15 gas sources, switching between channels to provide frequent readings at flow rates as low as 40 mL/h. Connect it directly to BMP systems, continuous reactors or other gas-producing experiments to reduce manual sampling and track changes in gas quality over time.
- Works at low gas flows
- CH₄ & CO₂ sensors
- Online connection to up to 15 channels
£14,500
1-year warranty included, with technical support beyond it
Automatically capture CH₄ and CO₂ composition that manual sampling can miss
In the past, lab-scale biogas setups such as batch fed systems have lagged behind industrial plants in gas composition readings. The challenge of only producing low flows has meant that all gas composition options always present a compromise: whether it’s infrequent data readings (gas bags), washing of important gases (H₂S, CO₂…) or complicated procedure (GC). The Chimera eliminates these issues by providing a convenient and easy to operate machine that measures gas composition online, semi-continuously and across up to 15 channels.
Already have batch reactors, continuous reactors or fermentation vessels?
Chimera can be connected to most laboratory gas-producing systems using standard tubing connections.
You don't need Anaero reactors.
Add more gases
The Chimera is fitted with CH₄ and CO₂ sensors, making it the perfect tool to track the primary gases produced during anaerobic digestion. The manifold also has 2 more spaces, for N₂O and CO sensors to be additionally fit if required.
Data Digester™ Included with every Chimera.
Data Digester runs the Chimera from your browser. Set the analyser up, watch methane and CO₂ readings arrive channel by channel as each gas source is sampled, and compare every reactor on one timeline. Every reading is saved, ready to export or pull into your own systems through the API.
- Set up and read in one placeInstrument settings, live measurements and data export sit together in the same browser interface.
- Every channel, one timelineSee gas composition from all fifteen sources side by side as the semi-continuous readings build up, rather than one gas-bag reading a day.
- Nothing lostA built-in database keeps every reading from every run, so earlier trials stay available to review and compare.
- Open APIPull data straight into your own scripts and systems, or export it for statistics, figures and reports.
Example experiment
Methane concentration
Interactive demonstration using generated example data. Methane concentration is shown across three reactor channels.
Key features
CH₄ & CO₂ sensors
The two primary components of biogas, read by NDIR sensors.
Modular gas sensor attachments
Sensors fit as attachments, up to four NDIR on the Chimera.
15 gas inlets, connected online
Fifteen channels and one for flushing, switched between automatically.
Independent outlet
A dedicated outlet, fitted for a gas bag.
Automatic, continuous composition
Readings taken around the clock with nobody attending.
Data Digester software included
Supplied with every Chimera, for reading and exporting the record.
WiFi enabled
Take the data off over WiFi or USB, whichever suits the bench.
Effective at low flows
Clean readings at a flow rate as low as 40ml/hour.
Explore the Chimera in 360°
Explore the controls and connections.
Control screen
Check gas composition and follow the progress of the channel currently being measured.15 gas outlets
Gas leaves through these outlets after measurement. An additional outlet serves the flushing channel.
Power port and power button
Connect the power supply at the lower side panel, then use the adjacent power button to turn on the analyser.
15 gas inlets and the flushing port
Connect gas sources to the numbered B01–B15 inlets for automatic sampling across your experiments. The separate F01 port is for flushing.
Ethernet port
Use the Ethernet port on the lower side panel for a wired connection to your device.
Technical Specification
| Gas sensors included | CH₄ & CO₂ |
|---|---|
| Maximum number of sensors | 4 NDIR |
| Sample recirculation | No |
| Number of channels | 15 + 1 (flushing channel) |
| Minimum flow rate | 40ml/hour |
| Data extraction | USB or WiFi |
| Software | Data Digester software included |
| Built-in Raspberry Pi | Yes |
| CH₄ | 100.0% |
|---|---|
| CO₂ | 80.00% |
| CO | 5.000% |
| N₂O | 5.000% |
Frequently asked questions
What is the Chimera used for?
The Chimera is a multi-channel gas analyser for CH₄ and CO₂, that works for low gas flow setups, such as batch fed systems. You can connect your gas sources to the Chimera at the beginning of your tests, and automatically receive gas composition data.
What is the difference between the Chimera and the Chimera Max?
The Chimera is fit with CH₄ and CO₂ sensors, with the capacity to add 2 more NDIR sensors. The Chimera Max is additionally compatible with electrochemical sensors, allowing for the reading of gases such as H₂S and H₂. Chimera Max is also fit with a recirculation pump, which allows it to draw back in collected gas from the outlets for analysis, once sufficient gas is collected. This is necessary because electrochemical sensors require larger volume for accurate reads.
Can I use the Chimera with other lab digesters?
Yes. The Chimera connects to any reactor setup with a gas outlet carrying a continuous stream of gas, so you can add automated gas composition readings to equipment you already have. Take the gas from the raw biogas line, before any CO₂-absorbing unit, so the Chimera sees the full biogas composition.
Can the Chimera only be used for anaerobic digestion studies?
The Chimera is a versatile machine which can be used for many applications, where there are multiple streams of gas that require composition analysis. Some alternative applications are: aerobic fermentation tests, biohydrogen, fuel.
What warranty and support come with the Chimera?
The Chimera comes with a one-year warranty, starting from the date of delivery. It applies when the instrument is installed and used as the manual describes. After the warranty ends, we're still happy to help with questions and troubleshooting: we want your instruments running and collecting data.
