Stable Isotope Natural Gas Reference Materials
The U.S. Geological Survey has developed a suite of natural gas standards. These reference gases are the replacement for the prior standards maintained by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Details regarding development of the HCG RMs are provided in USGS Scientific Investigations Report 2021-5136.
The natural gas standards are intended to serve as the primary carbon and hydrogen stable isotope reference materials for methane, ethane, and propane, and will be used in research and technology development by industry, academia, and governmental agencies.
ORDERS ARE CURRENTLY BEING ACCEPTED
Please send an email expressing interest in the HCG Reference Materials to cerschcgrms@usgs.gov and you will be contacted prior to the next distribution date.
Ordering
Orders for the HCG Reference Materials are accepted from January 1 until April 1. Given the limited quantity of gas available, purchasers are restricted to one purchase every three years. The HCG Reference Materials are distributed in 50 mL stainless steel vessels equipped with one (1) standard ¼” NPT fitting and pressurized. The HCG Reference Materials are only sold as a set of three. Technical questions related to HCG Reference Materials and information regarding placing an order should be directed to cerschcgrms@usgs.gov.
Requestors of the HCG Reference Materials will receive an order form to be completed in full. A user agreement form will then be sent to the purchaser for signature and must be returned prior to the order being fulfilled. Requestors should identify if the purchase is on behalf of other U.S. Government agencies as separate procedures apply. Additional paperwork and therefore time is required to process foreign requests.
User Agreements
In order to comply with the United States Economy Act, 31 USC 1535A, the USGS Technology Transfer Office requires that all purchasers of HCG Reference Materials complete and sign an agreement stating that the acquisition of the reference materials from the USGS falls within the authority of the agency to enter into cooperative research and development agreements.
Shipping
The purchaser is responsible for the cost of shipping.
International Customers
For international shipments, the purchaser is responsible for arranging shipping, generating shipment paperwork, and covering all associated expenses. Shipment paperwork for international orders must be formalized before payment. If special packaging and labelling are required, it will be the responsibility of the purchaser to notify the USGS and, if requested, supply any additional shipping materials.
Payment Options
Domestic/International Customers
Payments can be made via wire transfer or online through ACH (Pay.gov)
USGS Customers
Payments will be handled through VA transfer
Other Federal Agencies
Please contact cerschcgrms@usgs.gov for more information.
Below are news stories associated with this project.
USGS Releases New Standards for Natural Gas
USGS now has the new standard for natural gas.
Below are news stories associated with this project.
USGS Releases New Standards for Natural Gas
USGS now has the new standard for natural gas.