CA2614663C - Analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography - Google Patents
Analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography Download PDFInfo
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- CA2614663C CA2614663C CA2614663A CA2614663A CA2614663C CA 2614663 C CA2614663 C CA 2614663C CA 2614663 A CA2614663 A CA 2614663A CA 2614663 A CA2614663 A CA 2614663A CA 2614663 C CA2614663 C CA 2614663C
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- housing
- tube
- carrier gas
- adsorbent
- column
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- 239000012491 analyte Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 22
- 238000004817 gas chromatography Methods 0.000 title abstract description 7
- 239000003463 adsorbent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 36
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- 239000012159 carrier gas Substances 0.000 claims description 44
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000010926 purge Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000006229 carbon black Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000002209 hydrophobic effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000037361 pathway Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 239000002250 absorbent Substances 0.000 abstract 1
- 230000002745 absorbent Effects 0.000 abstract 1
- 239000000523 sample Substances 0.000 description 30
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 18
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 12
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 7
- 238000005070 sampling Methods 0.000 description 7
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000012494 Quartz wool Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000470 constituent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011491 glass wool Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000012071 phase Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000035945 sensitivity Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000005526 G1 to G0 transition Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004587 chromatography analysis Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012141 concentrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000356 contaminant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012864 cross contamination Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007812 deficiency Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003795 desorption Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008030 elimination Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003379 elimination reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000011067 equilibration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007791 liquid phase Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- BULVZWIRKLYCBC-UHFFFAOYSA-N phorate Chemical compound CCOP(=S)(OCC)SCSCC BULVZWIRKLYCBC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000000053 physical method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004094 preconcentration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007790 solid phase Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000001179 sorption measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010408 sweeping Methods 0.000 description 1
Landscapes
- Sampling And Sample Adjustment (AREA)
Abstract
An analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography is disclosed generally comprising a tube having a restricted outlet and packed with an absorbent, wherein the tube serves as the liner of a chromatographic injector, as an adsorbent trap coupled to a chromatographic column, and/or as an adsorbent trap coupled to a headspace sampler. Preferably, a heating device allows the tube to be heated. In a preferred embodiment, the analyte pre-concentrator further comprises a column isolating accessory so that a chromatographic column can be temporarily isolated from substances flowing through the tube.
Description
2 PCT/tJS2003/023223 ANALYTE PRE-CONCENTRATOR FOR GAs CHROMATOGRAPHY
Field Of The Invention [oooll The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for pre-concentrating analytes and removing moisture in a sample. More specifically, the invention relates to an adsorbent trap for use with chromatographic columns, chromatographic injectors, and headspace samplers.
Background Of The Invention [0002] Chromatography is essentially a physical method of separation in which constituents of a test sample in a carrier gas or liquid are adsorbed or absorbed and then desorbed by a stationary phase material in a column. A
pulse of the sample is introduced into a steady flow of carrier gas. At the end of the column, the individual components are more or less separated in time.
Detection of the gas provides a time-scaled pattern that, by calibration or comparison with known samples, indicates the constituents of the test sample. An example of the process by which this occurs is described in U.S.
Pat. No. 5,545,252 to Hinshaw.
Field Of The Invention [oooll The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for pre-concentrating analytes and removing moisture in a sample. More specifically, the invention relates to an adsorbent trap for use with chromatographic columns, chromatographic injectors, and headspace samplers.
Background Of The Invention [0002] Chromatography is essentially a physical method of separation in which constituents of a test sample in a carrier gas or liquid are adsorbed or absorbed and then desorbed by a stationary phase material in a column. A
pulse of the sample is introduced into a steady flow of carrier gas. At the end of the column, the individual components are more or less separated in time.
Detection of the gas provides a time-scaled pattern that, by calibration or comparison with known samples, indicates the constituents of the test sample. An example of the process by which this occurs is described in U.S.
Pat. No. 5,545,252 to Hinshaw.
[0003] The value of using a separate, heated device for receiving the sample and subsequently introducing it into the column has long been recognized. One such device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,038,053 to Golay, which describes using a chromatographic injector for receiving the sample, heating it, and subsequently injecting it into a chromatographic column. Such a device is desired because higher sample equilibrium temperatures can result in much larger chromatographic peaks. A
disadvantage of such devices, however, is that such temperature increases may also increase the concentration of other material that detrimentally affects the sensitivity of the system, such as water.
WO 2004/009202 PCT/[JS2003/023223 [oooa] To remedy this problem, numerous assemblies have been suggested to pre-concentrate analytes in a sample and remove moisture therefrom prior to introducing the sample into a chromatographic column. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,612,225 to Beccanti, U.S. Pat. No. 4,245,494 to Legendre, and U.S. Pat. No. 2,813,010 to Hutchins disclose a means for removing water from a sample prior to introducing the sample into a chromatographic column by first passing the sample through an anhydrous substance, which absorbs the water. However, because the anhydrous substance absorbs the water, rather than adsorbing the analyte and allowing the water to be purged from the system, repeated use of the anhydrous, substance is likely to be limited and require frequent replacement.
[ooosa Several assemblies have been suggested which utilize an adsorbent trap, which adsorbs the analytes while allowing water to pass through. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6,223,584 to Mustacich discloses the use of an adsorbent trap in a pre-concentrator assembly for pre-concentrating analytes in a sample prior to introducing the sample Into a chromatographic column; which device comprises a tube containing an adsorbent material.
However, a disadvantage of this arrangement is the dead volume that exists betweeh the adsorbent bed and the chromatographic column, which is undesirable because, at typical column flow rates, excessive peak broadening results:
[ooos) U.S. Patent No. 5,814,128 to Jiang discloses the use of an adsorbent trap in conjunction with a separate water management device, which device removes water from a sample prior to entry into a chromatographic column via the swirling motion caused by a threaded (or other non-smooth geomet(cally shaped) bore in the device. Similarly, U.S.
Patent No. 4,293,316 to Block discloses the use of an adsorbent trap in conjunction with a membrane separator device, which device removes water from a sample prior to entry into a gas analyzer. However, rather than optimizing the utility of the adsorbent trap itself as a means for analyte pre-concentration and moisture elimination, these assemblies each require a separate device in addition to the trap, which not only creates additional manufacture and maintenance costs, but also does not solve the aforementioned problem of excessive volume between the adsorbent bed and the chromatographic column.
[ooo7] One means of introducing a sample containing an analyte into a chromatographic column is known as "headspace sampling." In conventional headspace sampling, sample material is sealed in a vial and subjected to constant temperature conditions for a specified time. Analyte concentrations in the vial gas phase should reach equilibrium with the liquid and/or solid phases during this thermostatting time. The vial is subsequently pressurized with carrier gas to a level greater than the "natural" internal pressure resulting from them}ostatting and equilibration. Then the pressurized vial is connected to the chromatographic column in such a way as to allow for the transfer of a portion of the vial gas phase into the column for a short period of time. Such a system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,711,786 to Hinshaw, which describes using a chromatographic injector between the vial and the chromatographic columii. However, the use of such devices presently known in the art, including chromatographic injectors, for headspace applications results in the same disadvantages previously mentioned for introducing samples into chromatographic columns generally.
(ooosl What is desired, therefore, is a method and apparatus for pre-concentrating analytes and eliminating moisture in a sample prior to introducing the sample into a chromatographic column. What is further desired is a method and apparatus for pre-concentrating analytes and eliminating moisture in a sample in a chromatographic injector. What is also desired is a method and apparatus for pre-concentrating analytes and eliminating moisture In a sample in connection with a headspace sampler.
disadvantage of such devices, however, is that such temperature increases may also increase the concentration of other material that detrimentally affects the sensitivity of the system, such as water.
WO 2004/009202 PCT/[JS2003/023223 [oooa] To remedy this problem, numerous assemblies have been suggested to pre-concentrate analytes in a sample and remove moisture therefrom prior to introducing the sample into a chromatographic column. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,612,225 to Beccanti, U.S. Pat. No. 4,245,494 to Legendre, and U.S. Pat. No. 2,813,010 to Hutchins disclose a means for removing water from a sample prior to introducing the sample into a chromatographic column by first passing the sample through an anhydrous substance, which absorbs the water. However, because the anhydrous substance absorbs the water, rather than adsorbing the analyte and allowing the water to be purged from the system, repeated use of the anhydrous, substance is likely to be limited and require frequent replacement.
[ooosa Several assemblies have been suggested which utilize an adsorbent trap, which adsorbs the analytes while allowing water to pass through. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6,223,584 to Mustacich discloses the use of an adsorbent trap in a pre-concentrator assembly for pre-concentrating analytes in a sample prior to introducing the sample Into a chromatographic column; which device comprises a tube containing an adsorbent material.
However, a disadvantage of this arrangement is the dead volume that exists betweeh the adsorbent bed and the chromatographic column, which is undesirable because, at typical column flow rates, excessive peak broadening results:
[ooos) U.S. Patent No. 5,814,128 to Jiang discloses the use of an adsorbent trap in conjunction with a separate water management device, which device removes water from a sample prior to entry into a chromatographic column via the swirling motion caused by a threaded (or other non-smooth geomet(cally shaped) bore in the device. Similarly, U.S.
Patent No. 4,293,316 to Block discloses the use of an adsorbent trap in conjunction with a membrane separator device, which device removes water from a sample prior to entry into a gas analyzer. However, rather than optimizing the utility of the adsorbent trap itself as a means for analyte pre-concentration and moisture elimination, these assemblies each require a separate device in addition to the trap, which not only creates additional manufacture and maintenance costs, but also does not solve the aforementioned problem of excessive volume between the adsorbent bed and the chromatographic column.
[ooo7] One means of introducing a sample containing an analyte into a chromatographic column is known as "headspace sampling." In conventional headspace sampling, sample material is sealed in a vial and subjected to constant temperature conditions for a specified time. Analyte concentrations in the vial gas phase should reach equilibrium with the liquid and/or solid phases during this thermostatting time. The vial is subsequently pressurized with carrier gas to a level greater than the "natural" internal pressure resulting from them}ostatting and equilibration. Then the pressurized vial is connected to the chromatographic column in such a way as to allow for the transfer of a portion of the vial gas phase into the column for a short period of time. Such a system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,711,786 to Hinshaw, which describes using a chromatographic injector between the vial and the chromatographic columii. However, the use of such devices presently known in the art, including chromatographic injectors, for headspace applications results in the same disadvantages previously mentioned for introducing samples into chromatographic columns generally.
(ooosl What is desired, therefore, is a method and apparatus for pre-concentrating analytes and eliminating moisture in a sample prior to introducing the sample into a chromatographic column. What is further desired is a method and apparatus for pre-concentrating analytes and eliminating moisture in a sample in a chromatographic injector. What is also desired is a method and apparatus for pre-concentrating analytes and eliminating moisture In a sample in connection with a headspace sampler.
Summary Of The Invention tooio] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography that permits temperature increases without detrimentally affecting the sensitivity of the chromatographic system.
[0011I It is a further object of the present invention to provide an analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography that provides a moisture trap permitting moisture to be purged from the chromatographic system so that the trap may be used for multiple injections.
[om] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography that provides a moisture trap resulting in iittie or no dead volume between the trap and a chromatographic column, thereby decreasing excessive peak broadening.
'tom] It is still another object of the present invention to provide an analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography that provides a moisture trap without the addition of a separate device, thereby decreasing manufacturing and maintenance costs.
[ooi4] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a method for pre-concentrating analytes in a gas chromatographic system that achieves the objects listed above.
[oo15] To overcome the deficiencies of the prior art and to achieve at least some of the objects and advantages listed, the invention comprises a chromatographic injector, a liner located inside the injector, the liner having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inner diameter of the outlet is smaller than the inner diameter of the inlet, and an adsorbent located inside the liner.
Preferably, the injector is temperature controllable.
[0011I It is a further object of the present invention to provide an analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography that provides a moisture trap permitting moisture to be purged from the chromatographic system so that the trap may be used for multiple injections.
[om] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography that provides a moisture trap resulting in iittie or no dead volume between the trap and a chromatographic column, thereby decreasing excessive peak broadening.
'tom] It is still another object of the present invention to provide an analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography that provides a moisture trap without the addition of a separate device, thereby decreasing manufacturing and maintenance costs.
[ooi4] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a method for pre-concentrating analytes in a gas chromatographic system that achieves the objects listed above.
[oo15] To overcome the deficiencies of the prior art and to achieve at least some of the objects and advantages listed, the invention comprises a chromatographic injector, a liner located inside the injector, the liner having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inner diameter of the outlet is smaller than the inner diameter of the inlet, and an adsorbent located inside the liner.
Preferably, the injector is temperature controllable.
(oo1s1 In another embodiment, the invention comprises a tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inner diameter of the outlet is smaller than the inner diameter of the inlet, an adsorbent located inside the tube, and a gas chromatographic column coupled to the tube. Preferably, the invention further comprises a heating device for heating the tube.
[0017] In another embodiment, the invention comprises a headspace sampler, a tube coupled to the headspace sampler, the tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inner diameter of the outlet is smaller than the inner diameter of the inlet, and an adsorbent located inside the tube. Preferably, the invention further comprises a heating device for heating the tube.
[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the invention further comprises a column isolating accessory, with which a chromatographic column can be temporarily isolated from the tube or liner.
[0019] The invention also relates to a method comprising the steps of setting the pressures of a main carrier gas inlet and an auxiliary carrier gas inlet such that a column is isolated from substances flowing through a tube, introducing a sample mixture into the tube, such that the mixture passes through an adsorbent, which adsorbs the analytes, and . is . vented from the chromatographic system, introducing additional carrier gas into the tube, such that moisture is dry purged from the adsorbent, setting the pressures of the main carrier gas inlet and the auxiliary carrier gas inlet such that the column is no longer isolated from substances flowing through the tube, and heating the tube, such that the analytes adsorbed by the adsorbent are desorbed into the column.
[002ol The invention and its particular features will become more apparent from the following detailed description when considered with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0017] In another embodiment, the invention comprises a headspace sampler, a tube coupled to the headspace sampler, the tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inner diameter of the outlet is smaller than the inner diameter of the inlet, and an adsorbent located inside the tube. Preferably, the invention further comprises a heating device for heating the tube.
[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the invention further comprises a column isolating accessory, with which a chromatographic column can be temporarily isolated from the tube or liner.
[0019] The invention also relates to a method comprising the steps of setting the pressures of a main carrier gas inlet and an auxiliary carrier gas inlet such that a column is isolated from substances flowing through a tube, introducing a sample mixture into the tube, such that the mixture passes through an adsorbent, which adsorbs the analytes, and . is . vented from the chromatographic system, introducing additional carrier gas into the tube, such that moisture is dry purged from the adsorbent, setting the pressures of the main carrier gas inlet and the auxiliary carrier gas inlet such that the column is no longer isolated from substances flowing through the tube, and heating the tube, such that the analytes adsorbed by the adsorbent are desorbed into the column.
[002ol The invention and its particular features will become more apparent from the following detailed description when considered with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Brief Description Of The Drawinas [00211 Figure 1 is a perspective view of a gas chromatographic sampling system Including a headspace sampler and a gas chromatograph in accordance with the invention.
[0022] Figure 2 is an isometric view of a chromatographic injector and a column isolating accessory connected to the bottom of the injector for use with the chromatographic sampling system of Figure 1.
[00231 Figure 3 is an exposed side view of the chromatographic injector and column isolating accessory of Figure 2.
[0024] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a tube used as a liner inside chromatographic injectors known in the prior art.
'100253 Figure 5 is a perspective view of an empty tube used as a liner inside the chromatographic injector of Figure 3.
[0026] Figure 6 is a side view of the tube of Figure 5 containing an adsorbent.
[0027] Figure 7 is an exposed side view of the gas chromatographic system of Figure 1 during the vial pressurization stage.
[0028] Figure 8 is an exposed side view of the gas chromatographic system of Figure 1 during the analyte adsorption stage.
[0029] Figure 9 is an exposed side view of the gas chromatographic system of Figure 1 during the dry purge stage.
[003o] Figure 10 is an exposed side view of the gas chromatographic system of Figure 1 during the analyte desorption stage [0031) Figure 11 is an exposed side view of a gas chromatographic system of Figure 1 during the cleanup stage.
Detailed Description Of The Invention [0032] The basic components of one embodiment of a gas chromatographic sampling system 10 in accordance with the invention are illustrated in Figure 1. As used in this description, the terms "top,"
"bottom,"
"upper," and "lower" refer to the objects referenced when in the orientation illustrated in the drawings, which orientation is not necessary for achieving the objects of the invention.
[0033] In the embodiment depicted in Figure 1, a headspace sampler 12 holds a plurality of vials 14 that contain the sample to be analyzed. The headspace sampler 12 is connected to a gas chromatograph 16 via a transfer line 18. The basic components of the gas chromatograph are an injector 20, a chromatographic column 80, and a detector (not shown).
[00341 The basic components of one embodiment of the injector 20, an example of which is the Programmed-Temperature Split/Splitless Inlet System (PSS) Injector manufactured by PerkinElmer Instruments LLC, are illustrated in Figures 2 through 3. A metal sleeve 22 creates a chamber 24 in which a removable tube 26 that serves as the "liner" of the injector 20 is inserted.
The sleeve 22 is located inside a heater block 28, which is governed by a heating element 30, for heating the chamber 24, including the liner 26. The heater block 28 is provided with cooling fins 32, and a fan 34 may be coupled to a housing 36 for subsequently cooling the chamber 24 and liner 26.
[0035] Referring to Figures 5 through 6, the main features and components of the liner 26 are illustrated. Preferably, the liner 26 is glass.
The liner 26 has an inlet 70 located at its top and an outlet 72 located at its bottom. The outlet 72 is restricted, such that the bottom of the liner 26 has an inner diameter smaller than that of the top. A glass disk 74 rests at the top of the restricted bottom of the liner. Above the disk 74, the liner is packed with an adsorbent material 76 capable of adsorbing analytes. Preferably, the adsorbent 76 is hydrophobic. One such adsorbent is graphitized carbon black, such as Carbopack B, manufactured by Supelco. The restricted outlet 72 serves the dual purpose of firmly retaining the adsorbent 76 and significantly reducing the dead volume between the adsorbent 76 and the column 80. Preferably, a glass/quartz wool plug 78 is located above the adsorbent 76 both to facilitate mixing of the sample vapor and the carrier gas and to serve as a surface on which nonvolatile residues from the sample vapor are deposited, thereby permitting easier cleaning of the liner 26. As shown in Figure 6, the column 80 may be Inserted directly into the bottom of the liner 26.
[0036] Referring again to Figures 2 through 3, a threaded collar 40 secures a septum assembly 42 to the housing 36 at the top of the metal sleeve 22. A septum cap 44 secures a septum 45 to the top of the septum assembly 42, through which septum a microsyringe 82 may inject the sample.
[6o37) The septum assembly 42 has a main carrier gas inlet 46, the pressure of which can be regulated, which is located above, and separated from the chamber 24 by, an intemai seal 48, such as an o-ring. Additionally, septum assembly 42 has a septum purge outlet 50. The septum assembly mechanically defines the path of the septum purge flow to prevent cross contamination with the sample flow path.
[00381 Preferably, a"spiit" vent 52, for splitting the gas mixture, is located below the intemai seal 48 and Is in fluid communication with the chamber 24.
[0039] Preferably, a column isolating accessory 60, such as the PreVentTM System manufactured by PerkinEimer instruments, LLC, is interposed between the bottom of the injector 20 and the chromatographic column 80. The accessory 60 has an auxiliary carrier gas inlet 62, the pressure of which can be regulated. Additionally, the accessory may have a restrictor tubing (not shown) which is inserted into the bottom of the liner and the top of the column 80 when the accessory is coupled to the bottom of the injector 20.
[0040] Operation of the above described gas chromatographic system is illustrated stepwise in Figures 7-11. Beginning in Figure 7, a sampling needlP 82 descends into a vial 14. A headspace sampler carrier gas inlet 84 is open to allow carrier gas to pressurize the vial 14 (indicated by arrows A).
The main carrier gas inlet 46 is open and set at a pressure appropriate to introduce carrier gas into the injector 20 (indicated by arrows B), and the auxiliary carrier gas inlet 62 is open and set at a slightly lower pressure than the main carrier gas inlet 46 in order to introduce carrier gas into the injector to isolate the chromatographic column 80 from the injector 20 (indicated by arrows C).
[0041) Referring to Figure 8, the headspace sampler carrier gas inlet 84 is closed, and headspace vapor elutes from the vial 14, down the transfer line 18, through the septum 45, into the injector 20, and into the liner 26 (indicated by arrows D). Carrier gas entering the injector from the main carrier gas inlet 46 mixes with the sample vapor, which mixing is further facilitated by the glass/quartz wool plug 78, and helps to carry the sample vapor through the adsorbent 76 and out the restricted outlet 72 (indicated by arrows E), at which point it mixes with carrier gas entering the injector 20 from auxiliary carrier gas inlet 62 (indicated by arrows C), and out the split vent (indicated by arrows Z).
[00421 Referring to Figure 9, the sampling needle 82 is removed from the vial 14 and the headspace sampler carrier gas inlet 84 is re-opened. The carrier gas supplied by the inlet 84 and the main carrier gas inlet 46 flow through the adsorbent 76 and dry purge the water therefrom (indicated by arrows F). Because the auxiliary carrier gas inlet 62 is still set at a pressure appropriate to isolate the chromatographic column 80 (indicated by arrows C), the water and other unwanted substances that exit the restricted outlet 72 are carried along the outside of the liner 26 and out the split vent 52 (indicated by arrows G). A small additional flow passes over the exposed surface of the septum 45, sweeping volatile contaminants away from the main carrier gas flow, and passes through the septum purge outlet 50 (indicated by arrows H).
[0043) Referring to Figure 10, after the water has been removed, the split vent 52 is closed and the pressure of the main carrier gas inlet 46 is increased to permit flow into the column 80 (indicated by arrows I). The chamber 24, including the liner 26, is heated with the heater block 28 so that the analytes adsorbed by the adsorbent 76 are desorbed into the column 80 (indicated by arrows J).
[0044] Referring to Figure 11, after the analytes have been transferred to the column 80, the pressure of the main carrier gas inlet 46 is decreased to again allow the carrier gas introduced into the injector 20 by the auxiliary carrier gas inlet 62 to isolate the column 80 from the injector 20 (indicated by arrows C). The liner 26 is further heated to drive any remaining unwanted less volatile residue off of the adsorbent 76 and out through the split vent (indicated by arrows K).
[0045] It should be understood that the foregoing is illustrative and not limiting, and that obvious modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Accordingly, reference should be made primarily to the accompanying claims, rather, than the foregoing specification, to determine the scope of the invention.
[0022] Figure 2 is an isometric view of a chromatographic injector and a column isolating accessory connected to the bottom of the injector for use with the chromatographic sampling system of Figure 1.
[00231 Figure 3 is an exposed side view of the chromatographic injector and column isolating accessory of Figure 2.
[0024] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a tube used as a liner inside chromatographic injectors known in the prior art.
'100253 Figure 5 is a perspective view of an empty tube used as a liner inside the chromatographic injector of Figure 3.
[0026] Figure 6 is a side view of the tube of Figure 5 containing an adsorbent.
[0027] Figure 7 is an exposed side view of the gas chromatographic system of Figure 1 during the vial pressurization stage.
[0028] Figure 8 is an exposed side view of the gas chromatographic system of Figure 1 during the analyte adsorption stage.
[0029] Figure 9 is an exposed side view of the gas chromatographic system of Figure 1 during the dry purge stage.
[003o] Figure 10 is an exposed side view of the gas chromatographic system of Figure 1 during the analyte desorption stage [0031) Figure 11 is an exposed side view of a gas chromatographic system of Figure 1 during the cleanup stage.
Detailed Description Of The Invention [0032] The basic components of one embodiment of a gas chromatographic sampling system 10 in accordance with the invention are illustrated in Figure 1. As used in this description, the terms "top,"
"bottom,"
"upper," and "lower" refer to the objects referenced when in the orientation illustrated in the drawings, which orientation is not necessary for achieving the objects of the invention.
[0033] In the embodiment depicted in Figure 1, a headspace sampler 12 holds a plurality of vials 14 that contain the sample to be analyzed. The headspace sampler 12 is connected to a gas chromatograph 16 via a transfer line 18. The basic components of the gas chromatograph are an injector 20, a chromatographic column 80, and a detector (not shown).
[00341 The basic components of one embodiment of the injector 20, an example of which is the Programmed-Temperature Split/Splitless Inlet System (PSS) Injector manufactured by PerkinElmer Instruments LLC, are illustrated in Figures 2 through 3. A metal sleeve 22 creates a chamber 24 in which a removable tube 26 that serves as the "liner" of the injector 20 is inserted.
The sleeve 22 is located inside a heater block 28, which is governed by a heating element 30, for heating the chamber 24, including the liner 26. The heater block 28 is provided with cooling fins 32, and a fan 34 may be coupled to a housing 36 for subsequently cooling the chamber 24 and liner 26.
[0035] Referring to Figures 5 through 6, the main features and components of the liner 26 are illustrated. Preferably, the liner 26 is glass.
The liner 26 has an inlet 70 located at its top and an outlet 72 located at its bottom. The outlet 72 is restricted, such that the bottom of the liner 26 has an inner diameter smaller than that of the top. A glass disk 74 rests at the top of the restricted bottom of the liner. Above the disk 74, the liner is packed with an adsorbent material 76 capable of adsorbing analytes. Preferably, the adsorbent 76 is hydrophobic. One such adsorbent is graphitized carbon black, such as Carbopack B, manufactured by Supelco. The restricted outlet 72 serves the dual purpose of firmly retaining the adsorbent 76 and significantly reducing the dead volume between the adsorbent 76 and the column 80. Preferably, a glass/quartz wool plug 78 is located above the adsorbent 76 both to facilitate mixing of the sample vapor and the carrier gas and to serve as a surface on which nonvolatile residues from the sample vapor are deposited, thereby permitting easier cleaning of the liner 26. As shown in Figure 6, the column 80 may be Inserted directly into the bottom of the liner 26.
[0036] Referring again to Figures 2 through 3, a threaded collar 40 secures a septum assembly 42 to the housing 36 at the top of the metal sleeve 22. A septum cap 44 secures a septum 45 to the top of the septum assembly 42, through which septum a microsyringe 82 may inject the sample.
[6o37) The septum assembly 42 has a main carrier gas inlet 46, the pressure of which can be regulated, which is located above, and separated from the chamber 24 by, an intemai seal 48, such as an o-ring. Additionally, septum assembly 42 has a septum purge outlet 50. The septum assembly mechanically defines the path of the septum purge flow to prevent cross contamination with the sample flow path.
[00381 Preferably, a"spiit" vent 52, for splitting the gas mixture, is located below the intemai seal 48 and Is in fluid communication with the chamber 24.
[0039] Preferably, a column isolating accessory 60, such as the PreVentTM System manufactured by PerkinEimer instruments, LLC, is interposed between the bottom of the injector 20 and the chromatographic column 80. The accessory 60 has an auxiliary carrier gas inlet 62, the pressure of which can be regulated. Additionally, the accessory may have a restrictor tubing (not shown) which is inserted into the bottom of the liner and the top of the column 80 when the accessory is coupled to the bottom of the injector 20.
[0040] Operation of the above described gas chromatographic system is illustrated stepwise in Figures 7-11. Beginning in Figure 7, a sampling needlP 82 descends into a vial 14. A headspace sampler carrier gas inlet 84 is open to allow carrier gas to pressurize the vial 14 (indicated by arrows A).
The main carrier gas inlet 46 is open and set at a pressure appropriate to introduce carrier gas into the injector 20 (indicated by arrows B), and the auxiliary carrier gas inlet 62 is open and set at a slightly lower pressure than the main carrier gas inlet 46 in order to introduce carrier gas into the injector to isolate the chromatographic column 80 from the injector 20 (indicated by arrows C).
[0041) Referring to Figure 8, the headspace sampler carrier gas inlet 84 is closed, and headspace vapor elutes from the vial 14, down the transfer line 18, through the septum 45, into the injector 20, and into the liner 26 (indicated by arrows D). Carrier gas entering the injector from the main carrier gas inlet 46 mixes with the sample vapor, which mixing is further facilitated by the glass/quartz wool plug 78, and helps to carry the sample vapor through the adsorbent 76 and out the restricted outlet 72 (indicated by arrows E), at which point it mixes with carrier gas entering the injector 20 from auxiliary carrier gas inlet 62 (indicated by arrows C), and out the split vent (indicated by arrows Z).
[00421 Referring to Figure 9, the sampling needle 82 is removed from the vial 14 and the headspace sampler carrier gas inlet 84 is re-opened. The carrier gas supplied by the inlet 84 and the main carrier gas inlet 46 flow through the adsorbent 76 and dry purge the water therefrom (indicated by arrows F). Because the auxiliary carrier gas inlet 62 is still set at a pressure appropriate to isolate the chromatographic column 80 (indicated by arrows C), the water and other unwanted substances that exit the restricted outlet 72 are carried along the outside of the liner 26 and out the split vent 52 (indicated by arrows G). A small additional flow passes over the exposed surface of the septum 45, sweeping volatile contaminants away from the main carrier gas flow, and passes through the septum purge outlet 50 (indicated by arrows H).
[0043) Referring to Figure 10, after the water has been removed, the split vent 52 is closed and the pressure of the main carrier gas inlet 46 is increased to permit flow into the column 80 (indicated by arrows I). The chamber 24, including the liner 26, is heated with the heater block 28 so that the analytes adsorbed by the adsorbent 76 are desorbed into the column 80 (indicated by arrows J).
[0044] Referring to Figure 11, after the analytes have been transferred to the column 80, the pressure of the main carrier gas inlet 46 is decreased to again allow the carrier gas introduced into the injector 20 by the auxiliary carrier gas inlet 62 to isolate the column 80 from the injector 20 (indicated by arrows C). The liner 26 is further heated to drive any remaining unwanted less volatile residue off of the adsorbent 76 and out through the split vent (indicated by arrows K).
[0045] It should be understood that the foregoing is illustrative and not limiting, and that obvious modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Accordingly, reference should be made primarily to the accompanying claims, rather, than the foregoing specification, to determine the scope of the invention.
Claims (8)
1. A system for pre-concentrating analytes for use with a chromatographic column coupled thereto, comprising:
a headspace sampler for obtaining headspace vapor containing analytes;
a transfer line connected to said headspace sampler for transferring the headspace vapor;
a housing connected to said transfer line to receive the headspace vapor obtained by said headspace sampler;
a tube disposed in said housing;
an adsorbent disposed in said tube for adsorbing the analytes when the headspace vapor passes through said tube; and a heating element disposed in said housing for increasing the temperature of said tube to desorb the analyte into the chromatographic column coupled to said housing.
a headspace sampler for obtaining headspace vapor containing analytes;
a transfer line connected to said headspace sampler for transferring the headspace vapor;
a housing connected to said transfer line to receive the headspace vapor obtained by said headspace sampler;
a tube disposed in said housing;
an adsorbent disposed in said tube for adsorbing the analytes when the headspace vapor passes through said tube; and a heating element disposed in said housing for increasing the temperature of said tube to desorb the analyte into the chromatographic column coupled to said housing.
2. An analyte pre-concentrator as claimed in claim 1, wherein said adsorbent is hydrophobic.
3. An analyte pre-concentrator as claimed in claim 2, wherein said adsorbent is graphitized carbon black.
4. An analyte pre-concentrator as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
said housing comprises a chromatographic injector; and said tube comprises a liner disposed in said injector.
said housing comprises a chromatographic injector; and said tube comprises a liner disposed in said injector.
5. An analyte pre-concentrator as claimed in claim 1, further comprising:
a first fluid pathway in which the headspace vapor containing the analytes mixes with carrier gas, flows through said adsorbent, which adsorbs the analytes, and is vented from said housing while the chromatographic column coupled to said housing is isolated therefrom; and a second fluid pathway in which the analytes adsorbed by said adsorbent are desorbed into the column.
a first fluid pathway in which the headspace vapor containing the analytes mixes with carrier gas, flows through said adsorbent, which adsorbs the analytes, and is vented from said housing while the chromatographic column coupled to said housing is isolated therefrom; and a second fluid pathway in which the analytes adsorbed by said adsorbent are desorbed into the column.
6. An analyte pre-concentrator as claimed in claim 5, wherein said housing has a vent in fluid communication with the lower chamber of said tube, through which vent moisture can be vented from said housing.
7. An analyte pre-concentrator as claimed in claim 6, further comprising a column isolating accessory coupled to said housing, with which accessory chromatographic columns coupled to said accessory are isolated from substances flowing through said housing.
8. An analyte pre-concentrator as claimed in claim 7, wherein:
said housing has a headspace vapor inlet by which the headspace vapor is introduced into said housing, into said tube, through said adsorbent, and out said vent;
said housing has a main carrier gas inlet in fluid communication with the upper chamber of said tube, by which main carrier gas inlet carrier gas is introduced into said tube;
said column isolating accessory has an auxiliary carrier gas inlet in fluid communication with the lower chamber of said tube, by which auxiliary carrier gas inlet carrier gas is introduced into said housing to isolate chromatographic columns coupled to said accessory; and the pressures of the main carrier gas inlet and the auxiliary carrier gas inlet are regulatable to introduce carrier gas into the upper chamber of said tube and isolate the column while the headspace vapor is introduced into said housing, while the headspace vapor flows through said adsorbent and out said vent, and while carrier gas dry purges said adsorbent and flows out said vent, and are further regulatable to introduce carrier gas into said tube and permit flow into the column while the adsorbed analytes are desorbed into the column.
said housing has a headspace vapor inlet by which the headspace vapor is introduced into said housing, into said tube, through said adsorbent, and out said vent;
said housing has a main carrier gas inlet in fluid communication with the upper chamber of said tube, by which main carrier gas inlet carrier gas is introduced into said tube;
said column isolating accessory has an auxiliary carrier gas inlet in fluid communication with the lower chamber of said tube, by which auxiliary carrier gas inlet carrier gas is introduced into said housing to isolate chromatographic columns coupled to said accessory; and the pressures of the main carrier gas inlet and the auxiliary carrier gas inlet are regulatable to introduce carrier gas into the upper chamber of said tube and isolate the column while the headspace vapor is introduced into said housing, while the headspace vapor flows through said adsorbent and out said vent, and while carrier gas dry purges said adsorbent and flows out said vent, and are further regulatable to introduce carrier gas into said tube and permit flow into the column while the adsorbed analytes are desorbed into the column.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/202,147 | 2002-07-24 | ||
US10/202,147 US6652625B1 (en) | 2002-07-24 | 2002-07-24 | Analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography |
US10/625,259 | 2003-07-22 | ||
US10/625,259 US6814785B2 (en) | 2002-07-24 | 2003-07-22 | Analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography |
CA002493449A CA2493449C (en) | 2002-07-24 | 2003-07-24 | Analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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CA002493449A Division CA2493449C (en) | 2002-07-24 | 2003-07-24 | Analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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CA2614663A1 CA2614663A1 (en) | 2004-01-29 |
CA2614663C true CA2614663C (en) | 2010-03-23 |
Family
ID=39277218
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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CA2614663A Expired - Lifetime CA2614663C (en) | 2002-07-24 | 2003-07-24 | Analyte pre-concentrator for gas chromatography |
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CA (1) | CA2614663C (en) |
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2003
- 2003-07-24 CA CA2614663A patent/CA2614663C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
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Effective date: 20230724 |