Abstract: Methods for the solvent extraction of organic analytes from a sample are provided. An organic solvent system is used to extract analytes under elevated temperatures and pressures above 100 psi but below supercritical conditions in short times and with low amounts of solvent. The extracted organic analytes are then removed by flowing a purge fluid through the extraction cell, the cell being maintained at a constant volume throughout the extraction and purging, afterwards the analytes being analyzed.

Abstract: An apparatus for automated extraction of an analyte from a sample positioned in a sample containment cell having a fluid passageway structure for communication of an extraction fluid to and from the cavity of the cell. The apparatus includes a loading tray, an oven assembly mounted proximate the loading tray, a fluid communication assembly mounted proximate the tray, a cell manipulation assembly and a controller. The cell manipulation assembly brings an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit of the fluid communication assembly into sealed relationship with the sample containment cell and uses the conduits to pick up and move the cell to and from the cell tray and oven assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for automated extraction of an analyte from a sample positioned in a sample containment cell having a fluid passageway structure for communication of an extraction fluid to and from the cavity of the cell. The apparatus includes a loading tray, an oven assembly mounted proximate the loading tray, a fluid communication assembly mounted proximate the tray, a cell manipulation assembly and a controller. The cell manipulation assembly brings an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit of the fluid communication assembly into sealed relationship with the sample containment cell and uses the conduits to pick up and move the cell to and from the cell tray and oven assembly.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for on-line coupled liquid chromatography and gas chromatography analysis. The system includes a high-volume, liquid vaporizing chamber, or interface capillary tube which allows injection of a substantial volume of sample-carrying eluent and concentrates bands, obviating adverse effects on the resolution or peak shape of the components of interest. The vaporizing chamber is interposed between a packed or wall-coated open tubular capillary liquid chromatographic column and a capillary gas chromatographic column. The capillary liquid chromatographic column permits the use of small volumes of eluent and reduced flow rates.

Abstract: An apparatus for receiving chemical compounds carried in a high pressure effluent fluid stream from supercritical fluid extraction. The apparatus includes a heated conduit connected to supercritical fluid extraction device through which an effluent stream flows. The exit port of the heated conduit is located within the airspace of a decompression zone which is free of liquid. A liquid solvent chamber is provided in open communication with the downstream end of the decompression zone into which the effluent stream flows for the recovery of chemical compounds therein.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for on-line coupled liquid chromatography and gas chromatography analysis. The system includes a high-volume, liquid vaporizing chamber, or interface capillary tube which allows injection of a substantial volume of sample-carrying eluent and concentrates bands, obviating adverse effects on the resolution or peak shape of the components of interest. The vaporizing chamber is interposed between a packed or wall-coated open tubular capillary liquid chromatographic column and a capillary gas chromatographic column. The capillary liquid chromatographic column permits the use of small volumes of eluent and reduced flow rates.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for on-line coupled liquid chromatography and gas chromatography analysis includes a retention gap which allows injection of a substantial volume of sample-carrying eluent and concentrates bands, obviating adverse effects on the resolution or peak shape of the components of interest. The retention gap is used to simultaneously receive and vaporize liquid solvent in a manner highly suitable for purposes of gas chromatographically separating solutes of interest dispersed in the liquid chromatography solvent.

Abstract: Porous ceramic plugs are cast in place in chromatographic columns in order to provide supports for chromatographic beds in liquid chromatography devices and restrictors in supercritical fluid chromatographic devices. The supports are cast in place by fusing a silicate containing solution, such as one containing potassium silicate, which has been drawn into the outlet end of the column.