A new device for the measurement of air content in polar ice

A new device for measuring air content in polar ice has been designed, built and tested with 22 samples of Antarctic ice. The new technique is based on the barometric method which implies: (1) air extraction under vacuum by melting-refreezing of the ice sample placed in a calibrated cell, and (2) accurate air-pressure and temperature measurements. The new apparatus simplifies the experimental procedures, decreases the duration of measurement and can eventually be used in the field. It provides results with an accuracy equivalent to or better than other methods previously used.