Abstract: A method of conducting microwave-assisted high pressure high temperature chemistry is disclosed. The method includes the steps of digesting a sample in a strong acid at a temperature of at least 200° C. in a pressure resistant vessel that includes a lid while exerting a defined force against the lid in order to maintain gases under pressure in the vessel; directing gas under excess pressure from the vessel into a circumferential passage defined by the vessel and its pressure resistant lid; and directing the gas from the circumferential passage outwardly from the lid while preventing gas from flowing outwardly over the edge of the vessel.

Abstract: A method of conducting microwave-assisted high pressure high temperature chemistry is disclosed. The method includes the steps of digesting a sample in a strong acid at a temperature of at least 200° C. in a pressure resistant vessel that includes a lid while exerting a defined force against the lid in order to maintain gases under pressure in the vessel; directing gas under excess pressure from the vessel into a circumferential passage defined by the vessel and its pressure resistant lid; and directing the gas from the circumferential passage outwardly from the lid while preventing gas from flowing outwardly over the edge of the vessel.

Abstract: A vessel assembly is disclosed for high pressure high temperature chemistry. The vessel assembly includes a cylindrical vessel and a cylindrical vessel seal cover. The vessel and the seal cover have respective surfaces that, when engaged, define a circumferential interior passage between the vessel and the seal cover. A pressure release opening in the seal cover is in fluid communication with the circumferential passage. A retaining ring surrounds the vessel and the seal cover at the position where the vessel and the seal cover meet to maintain an outer circumferential engagement between the seal cover and the vessel when pressure forces gases in the vessel to flow into the circumferential passage and then outwardly from the pressure release opening.

Abstract: A vessel assembly is disclosed for high pressure high temperature chemistry. The vessel assembly includes a cylindrical vessel and a cylindrical vessel seal cover. The vessel and the seal cover have respective surfaces that, when engaged, define a circumferential interior passage between the vessel and the seal cover. A pressure release opening in the seal cover is in fluid communication with the circumferential passage. A retaining ring surrounds the vessel and the seal cover at the position where the vessel and the seal cover meet to maintain an outer circumferential engagement between the seal cover and the vessel when pressure forces gases in the vessel to flow into the circumferential passage and then outwardly from the pressure release opening.