Abstract: The present invention relates to an automated solution generator, such as for use in generating buffering or clinical formulations or mobile phase solutions for chromatography systems, and methods for operating the automated solution generator to accurately dispense solutions, perform dilutions and prepare solutions with reduced user intervention.

Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, an ultra-high pressure chromatography system (UHPLC) is provided and includes a high pressure chromatography arrangement of equipment (HPLC system) as well as a UHPLC module for converting the HPLC system into the UHPLC system. One exemplary module includes a gradient storage column fluidly connected to the HPLC equipment in a post injector manner such that an injection plug can be selectively delivered and stored, in an inverted manner, therein at low pressures, while stored injection plug (gradient) is delivered to an analytical column using higher pressures for chromatographic separation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automated solution generator, such as for use in generating buffering or clinical formulations or mobile phase solutions for chromatography systems, and methods for operating the automated solution generator to accurately dispense solutions, perform dilutions and prepare solutions with reduced user intervention.

Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, an ultra-high pressure chromatography system (UHPLC) is provided and includes a high pressure chromatography arrangement of equipment (HPLC system) as well as a UHPLC module for converting the HPLC system into the UHPLC system. One exemplary module includes a gradient storage column fluidly connected to the HPLC equipment in a post injector manner such that an injection plug can be selectively delivered and stored, in an inverted manner, therein at low pressures, while stored injection plug (gradient) is delivered to an analytical column using higher pressures for chromatographic separation.

Abstract: An on-chip interferometric backscatter detector (OCIBD) makes use of plastic substrates in which a rectangular sample channel is formed. While any plastic material can be used to form the channel substrate, the substrate is most preferably formed from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). An incident laser beam reflects off of the sample channel walls and through the sample in the channel, thereby generating backscattered reflections that create interference fringe patterns. The fringe patterns are detected by a photodetector and used to determine various properties of the sample. To provide the best results, the laser beam diameter should be no smaller than the channel width so that the entire channel will be illuminated by the beam, and preferably should be slightly, e.g., 5%, larger. This will insure that the laser light reflected off of the walls of the channel will generate the desired interference fringe patterns, despite the less than optimum rectangular geometry of the channel walls.

Abstract: An on-chip interferometric backscatter detector (OCIBD) makes use of plastic substrates in which a rectangular sample channel is formed. While any plastic material can be used to form the channel substrate, the substrate is most preferably formed from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). An incident laser beam reflects off of the sample channel walls and through the sample in the channel, thereby generating backscattered reflections that create interference fringe patterns. The fringe patterns are detected by a photodetector and used to determine various properties of the sample. To provide the best results, the laser beam diameter should be no smaller than the channel width so that the entire channel will be illuminated by the beam, and preferably should be slightly, e.g., 5%, larger. This will insure that the laser light reflected off of the walls of the channel will generate the desired interference fringe patterns, despite the less than optimum rectangular geometry of the channel walls.

Abstract: An optical detection scheme for on-chip, high sensitivity refractive index detection is based on micro-interferometry, and allows for picoliter detection volumes and universal analyte sensitivity. The invention employs three main elements: a source of coherent light, such as a VCSEL, laser diode or He—Ne laser; an etched channel of capillary dimensions in a substrate for reception of a sample to be analyzed; and a photodetector for detecting laser light reflected off of the channel. The laser source generates an unfocused laser beam that is incident on the etched channel. A unique multi-pass optical configuration is inherently created by the channel characteristics, and is based on the interaction of the unfocused laser beam and the curved surface of the channel, that allows RI measurements in small volumes at high sensitivity. The entire device, including the laser and the photodetector can be formed on a single microchip.