Abstract: A device for sampling of a mixture of ultrafine particles within a moving gas stream includes a suction generator, at least one sample collection element, and a conduit structure coupling the sample collection element with the suction generator. In some embodiments, the suction generator is configurable to separate by suction a portion of a gas stream containing a plurality of ultrafine particles, and to entrain with a motive fluid forming an output mixture. In some embodiments, a conduit is configured to accept a gas stream containing ultrafine particles and to channel it to the collection element.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for producing a plurality of powder compositions, both stoichiometric and non-stoichiometric, is disclosed. The method includes the steps of introducing a plurality of materials into a particle production system under a first set of operating parameters, introducing the plurality of materials into the particle production system under a second set of operating parameters wherein at least one operating parameter of the first set is changed to form the second set, and sampling at least a portion of an output mixture representative of each of the first set of operating conditions and the second set of operating conditions. The apparatus includes a reactor, dispensing devices for supplying materials to the reactor, and other structures. The apparatus is preferably configurable via modification of operating parameters to produce a range of possible compositions for a given plurality of input materials.