Abstract: A modular reactor system and method for synthesizing chemical compounds characterized by a uniform temperature throughout the reaction mixture by use of a continuous flow reactor under high pressure. The apparatus includes a number of generic components such as pumps, flow channels, manifolds, flow restrictors, and valves. Modular reactors, separator and analyzers on an assembly board provide a system where a modular reactor unit has an I.D. of up 100 .mu.m to optimize control of residence time within a reaction zone.

Abstract: A portable microwave instrument for evaluating characteristics of a structural member includes a source of microwave energy, a transmitter coupled to the source of microwave energy for transmitting a microwave signal at the structural member, and a receiver positioned on the same side of the structural member as the transmitter and being disposed to receive a microwave signal reflected by the structural member. A phase angle difference is determined between the transmitted microwave signal and the received microwave signal using a signal splitter and a balanced mixer. The difference in phase angle varies in accordance with differences in size, shape and locations of constituent materials within the structural member.