Electron capture detector

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-009169",
  "term": "Electron capture detector",
  "field": "Environment",
  "term_source": "Electron Capture Detector",
  "definition": "An electron capture detector (ECD) is a device used in a gas chromatograph to detect trace amounts of chemical compounds in a sample. Typically, it contains a Ni-63 metal foil. The beta particles from the decay of Ni-63 ionize a gas, which causes a background current to flow in the ECD circuitry. If a sample absorbs some of the negative ions, the current is reduced. The current fluctuation therefore reveals the presence of the sample components.",
  "abbreviation": "ECD",
  "subject": "Research",
  "references": [
    "Adapted from USDA Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Coordination Radiation Safety Division (RSD) at http://www.dm.usda.gov/ohsec/rsd/ecd.htm"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/electron-capture-detector/"
}