Metrology Sample Pretreatment

Microtrac BELPREP VAC Series

A vacuum degassing and pretreatment system for adsorption analysis. It removes moisture and gases from samples to ensure accurate surface area and pore measurements.

BELPREP VAC Series
Ports 3 or 6 samples
Max Temperature 430 to 450 C
Vacuum External pump required
Programs Up to 8 (VAC III)

System Capabilities

The BELPREP VAC series prepares samples for adsorption analysis by removing moisture and adsorbed gases under vacuum or inert gas flow. It supports independent heating of multiple samples.

Pretreatment improves accuracy for BET and pore size measurements by establishing a reliable dry mass before analysis.

Operating Modes

Vacuum Heating

Standard degassing under vacuum to remove moisture and gases.

Flow Heating

Inert gas purge for samples sensitive to high vacuum.

Independent Ports

Simultaneous pretreatment of 3 or 6 samples.

Safety Zone

Radiation zone for controlled cooling after heating.

Technical Specifications

Models VAC II (3 ports) or VAC III (6 ports)
Max Temperature 430 C (VAC II) or 450 C (VAC III)
Pressure Limit Do not exceed 0.2 MPa (G)
Vacuum Requirement External rotary pump (>= 20 L/min)
Heating Programs Programmable with multi-step profiles (VAC III)
Recommended Gas Inert purge gas such as nitrogen

Comparison: This System vs Conventional Alternative

A high-level comparison to highlight performance and workflow advantages.

Feature This System Conventional Method
Precision Higher accuracy and repeatability Standard tolerance
Workflow Streamlined and automated Manual or multi-step
Throughput Faster turnaround Slower cycle time

Common Applications

Sample Degassing Removal of moisture and adsorbed gases.
Pretreatment for BET Prepare samples for surface area and pore analysis.
Sensitive Materials Flow heating for samples sensitive to high vacuum.
High Throughput Parallel pretreatment of multiple samples.