R.C. Lamb

Near-infrared analysis of hydrocarbon producing plant species

Abstract Fifty samples of native plants and 66 samples of milkweeds ( Asclepias ) were used to develop three equations using near-infrared reflectance (NIR) spectroscopy for the analysis of percent hexane, methanol and total yield extractables. The equations were then used to analyze samples not used for equation development. The native and milkweed-native (milkweed plus native plants) equations analyzed percent hexane, methanol and total yield extractables with a higher degree of accuracy than did the milkweed equation. The greatest errors occurred when analyzing percent methanol extractables. This may be due to a greater laboratory error. Analysis of percent total yield extractables had errors and r 2 values somewhat intermediate to those for percent hexane and methanol extractables due to the fact that percent methanol extractables made up part of the percent total yield values. NIR equations, using milkweed samples, for the analysis of percent hexane, methanol and total yield extractables are recommended only for milkweed samples, whereas equations developed using samples of a more diverse population can be used on a wider range of plants.

standardizing meteorological instrument testing

There presently exists a need for standardized testing techniques for meteorological instrument sensors and systems. It is suggested that representatives of the American Meteorological Society, the National Bureau of Standards, and the meteorological equipment manufacturers meet to determine these standard tests. It is further proposed that meteorological equipment companies who perform the standard tests on their own equipment be awarded an American Meteorological Society Seal of Approval.