Abstract: A process for making a flow cell having an internal flow passage of a material having a refractive index less than that of water or having the internal walls of the flow passage coated or otherwise covered with such a material is provided. The flow cell so produced substantially totally internally reflects light along the cell bore.

Abstract: A coated flow cell and a method for making the coated flow cell are provided. The flow cell comprises a flow passage internally coated with a polymer having an index of refraction lower than that of water. In this manner, light directed into the flow cell is internally reflected or "piped" down the length of the flow passage. As a result, flow cells having path lengths significantly longer and accepting incident angles of light much greater than possible with prior art flow cells. A method for internally coating the flow cell is also provided.

Abstract: A vial transport apparatus which is capable of storing and retrieving samples and then transporting them from one location in a sampling system to another without the complexity and expense of robotic arms or gripper elements is provided. A passive hook arrangement is utilized to engage the vials for transport and can be operated using a standard three motor system for transport in the X, Y, and Z directions. The hook supports the vial from beneath and at least partially surrounds the vial to entrap it during transport thereof.

Abstract: An improved method for the separation of anions using capillary electrophoresis techniques. Both organic and inorganic anions may be separated. Using precise control of the temperature of the fluid in the capillary column; the migration speed and order of migration of the anions may be controlled to improve the selectivity of the process. Further, close temperature control provides a high degree of repeatability for samples and enables one to track and identify specific anions.