Reducing Helium dependency in laboratories: a strategic shift for GC applications

In analytical laboratories, gas supply has traditionally been taken for granted.

For decades, helium has been the preferred carrier gas in Gas Chromatography (GC), valued for its inertness and reliability.

But today, laboratories are increasingly facing a critical question:

👉 Is dependence on helium still sustainable?

The challenge of helium dependency

Helium is a finite resource, subject to:

• supply concentration in limited geographic regions
• logistical constraints
• price volatility

For laboratories, this creates:

• uncertainty in procurement
• fluctuating operational costs
• risk of interruption in analytical workflows

Moving from dependency to control

Modern laboratories are now shifting their approach:

👉 from external supply dependency
👉 to on-site gas generation

This transition allows laboratories to:

• secure their gas availability
• stabilize costs over time
• reduce exposure to external disruptions

Hydrogen in GC: A proven alternative

Hydrogen is no longer just an alternative but a performance-driven choice.

Compared to helium, hydrogen offers:

✔ Faster optimal linear velocity
✔ Reduced analysis times (up to 25% faster)
✔ High chromatographic efficiency

In addition, on-site hydrogen generation provides:

✔ Continuous supply
✔ Elimination of cylinder logistics
✔ Improved laboratory safety and workflow

Beyond performance: sustainability and efficiency

Switching to hydrogen generation also contributes to:

• reduced carbon footprint (no cylinder transport)
• optimized energy consumption
• more efficient laboratory operations

A strategic evolution for modern laboratories

The transition away from helium is not just a reaction to market conditions.

It is part of a broader evolution:

👉 toward autonomy
👉 toward efficiency
👉 toward resilience

From supply risk to operational continuity

Laboratories that adopt on-site generation are no longer dependent on external factors.

They gain:

• stability
• predictability
• control over their processes

Conclusion

Gas is not just a consumable.
It is a strategic component of laboratory performance.

Reducing helium dependency means:

👉 ensuring continuity
👉 improving efficiency
👉 preparing for the future

👉 Discover how LNI Swissgas supports laboratories in this transition. Contact us!

LNI Swissgas
More than gas. A partner you can trust.