Abstract: A new optical sensing method for detection of analyte vapors down to ppb levels is described. The sensor is based on the use of a visible indicator, such as Bromocresol green, adsorbed onto a high surface area substrate, such as a silica sphere matrix. When the analyte gas is adsorb onto the matrix, the indicator undergoes a color change. The color change in turn is detected with a suitable spectrometer. Sensor performance is demonstrated for an exemplary amine sensor for the aliphatic amines tert-butylamine, diethylamine and triethylamine and also for pyridine and aniline. The microsphere sensor is more sensitive than other prior art optical amine sensor designs. The sensor response varies with temperature, with lower sensitivity and faster response at higher temperatures allowing for adjustment to prioritize sensitivity or speed. The sensor response is also highly reproducible and fully reversible.

Abstract: A two-compartment container in which the first compartment has an upper layer and a lower layer and contains a first component that is to be added to the second compartment. Above the first compartment is a dome that is bowed upward and is flexible. Attached to the dome is a cutting means. Depressing the dome by pushing downward on it lowers the cutting means so that either the lower layer only or both the upper and lower layer of the first compartment are cut by the cutting means, releasing the first component into the second compartment. The cutting means may be a simple puncturer, or in the case where the second compartment comprises a beverage container or the like, the cutting means may be part of a tubular wall surrounding the opening through which someone can drink the beverage.

Abstract: A two-compartment container in which the first compartment has an upper layer and a lower layer and contains a first component that is to be added to the second compartment. Above the first compartment is a dome that is bowed upward and is flexible. Attached to the dome is a cutting means. Depressing the dome by pushing downward on it lowers the cutting means so that both the upper and lower layer of the first compartment are cut by the cutting means, releasing the first component into the second compartment. The cutting means may be a simple puncturer, or in the case where the second compartment comprises a beverage container or the like, the cutting means may be part of a tubular wall surrounding the opening through which someone can drink the beverage.

Abstract: A two-compartment container in which the first compartment has an upper layer and a lower layer and contains a first component that is to be added to the second compartment. Above the first compartment is a dome that is bowed upward and is flexible. Attached to the dome is a cutting means. Depressing the dome by pushing downward on it lowers the cutting means so that either the lower layer only or both the upper and lower layer of the first compartment are cut by the cutting means, releasing the first component into the second compartment. The cutting means may be a simple puncturer, or in the case where the second compartment comprises a beverage container or the like, the cutting means may be part of a tubular wall surrounding the opening through which someone can drink the beverage.

Abstract: A two-compartment container in which the first compartment has an upper layer and a lower layer and contains a first component that is to be added to the second compartment. Above the first compartment is a dome that is bowed upward and is flexible. Attached to the dome is a cutting means. Depressing the dome by pushing downward on it lowers the cutting means so that both the upper and lower layer of the first compartment are cut by the cutting means, releasing the first component into the second compartment. The cutting means may be a simple puncturer, or in the case where the second compartment comprises a beverage container or the like, the cutting means may be part of a tubular wall surrounding the opening through which someone can drink the beverage.