Abstract: A reaction block assembly of reaction vessels for conducting chemical reactions under pressure. The assembly includes a heat conductive reactive block having reaction vessel receiving openings formed in the block. A heat exchanger is mounted in heat transfer engagement with some of the exterior walls of the reaction block. The heat exchangers can operate in different modes, to provide a heat differential across the reaction block. A reaction vessel is positioned in each reaction vessel receiving opening in the block. A cap is attached to each reaction vessel and a cannula opening is formed in each cap. A cannula passage is connected at one end to a cannula opening in each cap and it has a septum at the other end. A valve controls each cannula passage. An operating mechanism is provided for opening and closing each cannula passage controlling valve. The reaction block assembly may be used to determine when the reaction of a solution in a reaction vessel is completed.

Abstract: An array of reaction assemblies for heating and cooling a plurality of reaction vessels. Each reaction vessel assembly including a heat conductive reaction block having an exterior wall and a reaction vessel receiving cavity formed in the block inwardly of the exterior wall. A thermoelectric module is mounted in heat transfer engagement with the exterior wall of the heat conductive reaction block. A fluid heat exchange element is mounted in heat transfer engagement with the thermoelectric module. The thermoelectric module has its junctions to selectively remove heat from the exterior wall of the reaction block or to supply heat to this exterior wall. Each thermoelectric module has thermoelectric junctions cascaded for increased heating and cooling range and a plurality of these junctions to increase capacity.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for multiple, simultaneous synthesis of compounds. The apparatus includes a reaction block having a heating layer, a cooling layer, each of which may perform both functions, and a collection sump. A plurality of reaction tubes are supported in the reaction block in a matrix. Each reaction tube has a top outlet, a bottom outlet and a filter above the bottom outlet. Spool valves are located to control the bottom outlets of the reaction tubes. Obturators are provided to close the top outlets of the reaction tubes and to provide venting for the reaction tubes. The collection sump alternately may be equipped with individual collection tubes for each reaction tube. Each reaction tube is formed with a restrictive waist and protrusions arranged in a pattern between the waist and its bottom outlet to improve the mixing of the resinous solid supports by creating turbulence.

Abstract: An apparatus for multiple, simultaneous synthesis of compounds. The apparatus includes a reaction block having a heating layer, a cooling layer, each of which may perform both functions, and a collection sump. A plurality of reaction tubes are supported in the reaction block in a matrix. Each reaction tube has a top outlet, a bottom outlet and a filter above the bottom outlet. Spool valves are located to control the bottom outlets of the reaction tubes. Obturators are provided to close the top outlets of the reaction tubes and to provide venting for the reaction tubes. The collection sump alternately may be equipped with individual collection tubes for each reaction tube. Each reaction tube is formed with a restrictive waist and protrusions arranged in a pattern between the waist and its bottom outlet to improve the mixing of the resinous solid supports by creating turbulence. The restrictive waist limits the height of the vortex of solution during mixing and reaction to facilitate heating and refluxing.

Abstract: A method for forming a helical waveguide uses a deposit screen such as tape to prevent the deposit of unwanted material between the turns of the helix. The waveguide is formed by electroplating of nickel on a mandrel. The mandrel has raised portions similar to a screw on which the waveguide is formed. The deposit screen is placed in the recessed areas between the raised areas on the mandrel to prevent the mandrel from being plated in these areas. This prevents the turns of the helix from touching each other. The resultant helix is easily removed without damage to the waveguide or mandrel.

Abstract: An optical waveguide for infrared light includes a series of metal layers. A thick outer layer of nickel is provided for mechanical stiffness to make the structure self-supporting. Thinner inside layers are also provided of metals such as silver, gold and copper which are good heat conductors. Since nickel has a low thermal conductivity, the waveguide can be damaged due to heat build-up. The layers of good conductors spread the heat efficiently to remove this possibility while the nickel continues to provide the necessary strength. A highly-reflective inert inside layer of gold may also be provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing a waveguide from a mandrel. A helical waveguide is formed on a mandrel by electroplating. The mandrel has raised areas similar to a screw on which the waveguide is formed. A thin walled cylinder is slipped over the cylindrical mandrel and advanced axially as the mandrel rotates. A notch in the forward end of the cylinder acts to peel the waveguide from the mandrel. The cylinder then supports the waveguide in a helix as it continues to peel the remainder of the waveguide.