Abstract: A process and system for purifying an impure gas to produce a purified gas in a gas purification system and protecting the system from damage by a) passing a portion of a first gas stream into a reactor vessel, which exits as a second purified gas stream; b) combining a portion of the second purified gas stream with another portion of the first gas stream to form a combined gas stream; and c) passing the combined gas stream into a sensing device to regulate the flow of the first and second gas streams into the reactor vessel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sensing a flammable vapor are described herein. Initially, a first thermal conductivity of a vapor at a first temperature and a second thermal conductivity of the vapor at a second temperature can be determined. Thereafter, a ratio of the first thermal conductivity signal to that of the second thermal conductivity can be calculated to obtain a primary “vapor” signal. The “vapor” ratio can then be compared to an “air” ratio of air without the vapor at the first temperature and the second temperature to obtain a secondary signal thereof. Such a secondary signal can then be compared to an alarm set-point value to thereby determine whether the vapor comprises a flammable vapor and a risk-reducing action thereof be taken.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process and to an apparatus for providing a gaseous substance for the analysis of chemical elements or compounds. In one embodiment, a starting substance is continuously admixed with a reagent substance. This results in a gaseous reaction product which contains information about the elements of the starting substance, and a residual substance. The gaseous reaction product is separated from the residual substance and removed for analysis. One application is the isotopic analysis of oxygen or hydrogen from water.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for producing ions from chemical species analyzing chemical species. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a first ion source assembly that produces a first sample flow and a second ion source assembly that produces a second sample flow. The first and second ion source assemblies operate substantially at atmospheric pressure, and the second ion source assembly is different from the first ion source assembly. The apparatus also includes a separation member positioned at least partially between the first and second ion source assemblies, the separation member being shaped and sized to reduce interference between the first sample flow and the second ion source assembly and between the second sample flow and the first ion source assembly. In one embodiment, the first ion source assembly can include an electrospray ion source assembly and the second ion source assembly can include an atmospheric pressure chemical ionization source assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for collecting and detecting chemicals contained in a fluid includes a sorbent element, at least one chemical sensor, a first pump for pumping fluid through the sorbent element and a second pump for pumping fluid to the chemical sensor. The sorbent element contains a sorbent material and a heating element. The first pump pumps fluid into the sorbent element thereby collecting the chemicals on the sorbent material. The heating element provides heat to the sorbent element to desorb the chemicals from the sorbent material. The chemicals desorbed from the sorbent material are then pumped out of the sorbent element and to the chemical sensor. The sorbent material may have a cavity therein with the heating element located in that cavity. Alternatively, the heating element may be interposed between the enclosure and the sorbent material.

Abstract: An apparatus for notifying a user which gas tank(s) to connect to an enclosed chamber such as an incubator. The user inputs the desired setpoints for gasses such as O2 and CO2, and the corresponding gas level is determined. The determined gas level is compared with the setpoint of the gas and can display, which gas tank(s) should be hooked up to chamber.

Abstract: Elemental analysis of a sample is carried out in an oxygen atmosphere in a combustion reactor and the volume of oxygen required for analysis is determined by means of the algorithm Qo=&Dgr;(Qc)  [1] where Qo is the volume of oxygen required and Qc is the weight of the sample to be analyzed and &Dgr;=Qo1/Qc1 where Qo1 is the volume of oxygen necessary for the combustion of a predetermined quantity Qc1 of the sample to be analyzed, the volume of oxygen Qo is then fed in pulsed mode to the combustion reactor, by means of a flow detector.

Abstract: A chemical dosimeter comprising: a chamber defined by a heat resistant mesh; and a quantity of an adsorbent contained within the chamber; the arrangement being such that gas may diffuse into the chamber through the heat resistant mesh so that chemicals in the gas may be adsorbed by the adsorbent.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the preparation and use of a substrate having an array of diverse materials in predefined regions thereon. A substrate having an array of diverse materials thereon is generally prepared by delivering components of materials to predefined regions on a substrate, and simultaneously reacting the components to form at least two materials. Materials which can be prepared using the methods and apparatus of the present invention include, for example, covalent network solids, ionic solids and molecular solids. More particularly, materials which can be prepared using the methods and apparatus of the present invention include, for example, inorganic materials, intermetallic materials, metal alloys, ceramic materials, organic materials, organometallic materials, non-biological organic polymers, composite materials (e.g., inorganic composites, organic composites, or combinations thereof), etc.

Abstract: A tissue-based, deployable, standoff air quality sensor for detecting the presence of at least one chemical or biological warfare agent, includes: a cell containing entrapped photosynthetic tissue, the cell adapted for analyzing photosynthetic activity of the entrapped photosynthetic tissue; means for introducing an air sample into the cell and contacting the air sample with the entrapped photosynthetic tissue; a fluorometer in operable relationship with the cell for measuring photosynthetic activity of the entrapped photosynthetic tissue; and transmitting means for transmitting analytical data generated by the fluorometer relating to the presence of at least one chemical or biological warfare agent in the air sample, the sensor adapted for deployment into a selected area.

Abstract: A process is described for determining the stability of asphaltenes in oil fields, which comprises the following steps: a) titrations of stock tank oil are carried out; the values measured are then used, together with physico-chemical analyses of the stock tank oil, to thermodynamically characterize the asphaltenes and the heavy oil fraction; b) using the physico-chemical analyses of live oil, the experimental data relating to its phase behavior are interpolated in order to provide a better representation by means of an equation of state; c) using the equation of state thus calibrated and the characterization of the asphaltenes, the stability of the latter is verified in relation to the temperature and pressure of live oil, using the equation describing the behavior of a sterically stabilized colloid.

Abstract: The method is intended to detect with high sensitivity and high accuracy chemically contaminating impurities in which there exist chemically contaminating impurity constituents of basic series, acidic series, and organic substance series, in gaseous and particle states, and constituents of compounds thereof, contained in air inside a clean room, as constituents having every property. To this end, ions composed of various cations and anions, constituting the chemically contaminating impurities in fine particle, gaseous, or molecular state, are caused to continuously undergo dissolution reaction and dissociation reaction in a solution in sequence from those constituting salts having strong solubility or strong dissociative tendency.

Abstract: A galvanic measuring device for detecting oxygen content in a gas flow, having a sealed gas flow chamber and a layer of sodium chloride saturated sponge material lining the interior of the gas flow chamber, for providing a constant source of humidity to the chamber.

Abstract: A device for use in detection of airborne contaminants, and a method of using the device. The device includes: a flexible substrate having a front side and a back side; a contaminant carrier located on said front side; an adhesive located on said back side; and, a unique identifier located on one of said front side and said back side. The contaminant carrier may be a material adapted to receive and chemically bond with an airborne contaminant; adapted to receive and ionically bond with an airborne contaminant; or adapted to receive and physically hold an airborne contaminant.

Abstract: A method for testing gas detection instruments includes providing at least two reagents, immobilizing at least one of the reagents into a matrix material, heating the matrix material until the matrix permits movement of the reagent and generating a gas responsive to chemical reaction between the reagents. The gas is introduced into the sensor portion of the gas detection instrument to test the same. The reagents may each be immobilized on the matrix material with the heating serving to soften or melt the matrix material to permit chemical interaction. In a preferred embodiment, the heating is effected at about 90 to 150° C. The method may be employed to generate carbon monoxide or other gases of interest. Corresponding apparatus is provided. The apparatus may be structured to be inserted into or receive the gas detection instrument or have its output in communication therewith.

Abstract: Methods for searching for possible forms of a sample and methods of screening a sample according to its form comprise disposing the sample in at least one receptacle that defines a capillary space, such as a capillary tube. The sample is solidified to generate at least one solid form or semisolid form, and the generated form is analyzed and classified. The analysis may determine differences in molecular arrangement of the various forms or characteristics that reflect the form. The methods may employ a plurality of samples, conditions, or receptacles in an effort to generate a variety of forms, so that all or a high percentage of possible forms are obtained.

Abstract: A sampling system for detecting an analyte, comprising a diaphragm pump, a buffer chamber, a sensor head and intake port. The pump includes a chamber for receiving fluids via first and second ports. A buffer chamber is located at the second port for holding a quantity of air, and a sensor head is adapted to identify the presence of a desired analyte and produce a signal in response to the quantity identified. Preferably the diaphragm pump has a volume of gas per stroke capacity slightly larger than the volume of the sensor head such that the pump chamber has a greater volume than the buffer chamber and the buffer chamber has about the same volume as the sensor head. A sensor intake port intakes a sample potentially containing the analyte for contact with the sensor head upon operation of the diaphragm pump and out of the sensor head by jet-action caused by rapid movement of the diaphragm pump. A filter may be used for filtering air drawn through the pump chamber.

Abstract: The present invention is related to the sensing of analytes and in particular, to methods of determining, resolving, identifying, or quantitating such analytes once detected. This invention provides systems and methods for identifying analytes, comprising using an importance index to give greater weight to the responses from sensors that measure characteristics most useful for identification of analytes. In other aspects, the systems and methods are useful for increasing the stability of electronic nose systems by prolonging the predictive capability of the training set of known analytes. In still other aspects, the systems and methods are useful for detecting and responding to events correlated with the presence of an analyte.

Abstract: A method and a solid phase calibrant are provided suitable for use by untrained personnel to calibrate an analytical instrument under field conditions away from a laboratory. Filter discs or other suitable substrates are impregnated, by the process of adsorption, with solutions of known concentrations of analytes and chromatographic phase materials, such as polymers, in suitable solvents. The substrate material is selected to be chemically inert and to not negatively interact with the analytes, the calibration process, or the analytical instrumentation. The polymers cause the analyte to adhere to the substrate until the solution is desorbed by heating, so that the impregnated substrates form stable calibration solutions in solid phase which can be easily and reliably stored, transported, and used by operators with minimal training. The substrate is preferably contained in a card holder which can be easily inserted into and preferably mate with an inlet for the analytical instrument.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically inserting fluids into vessels, stirring the fluids within the vessels and withdrawing the stirred fluids from the vessels by vacuum. A movable arm supports fluid delivery pipettes, a stirring device and a fluid withdrawal system. A microprocessor automatically controls the alignment and operation of a movable arm and its appended operational implements.

Abstract: A system for analyzing samples using purge and trap concentration is provided. The system includes a plurality of purge and trap concentration units, each adapted to receive a sample and provide a focused analytic sample slug to an analyzer. An analyzer is coupled to each of the plurality of concentrators and receives the focused analytic slugs therefrom. The concentrators are operated in phases from one another.

Abstract: The invention, relates to a method for producing standard gases (CO and H2) for determining the isotope relationships of oxygen and/or hydrogen, in particular during on-line operation, with a sample being decomposed in a (hot) reactor (11) to produce CO and/or H2, and these components being fed to a mass spectrometer (15), and with the mass spectrometer also the gases obtained from the sample. The invention also relates to an apparatus for providing standard gases. The method according to the invention provides for the standard gases in the reactor (11) to be formed by decomposition, and for initial products which are suitable for this purpose to be fed to the reactor.

Abstract: A method and device for measuring release rates of contaminants in at least one of a fast release mode and a slow release mode in which a volatile liquid sample is introduced into a sealed transparent reactor vessel having at least one sorbent contained within the transparent reactor vessel and a separator for preventing direct contact between the at least one adsorbent and the at least one volatile liquid sample in the transparent reactor vessel, whereby substantially zero headspace is maintained within the transparent reactor vessel. At least one solvent soluble constituent present in the at least one volatile liquid sample is passed through the separator, resulting in sorption of the at least one solvent soluble constituent by the at least one sorbent. In accordance with one preferred embodiment, the separator is a dialysis bag contained in the transparent reactor vessel into which the resin is placed.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for detecting oxidizable contaminants in gas streams at very low levels. A portion of a contaminant-containing gas stream is reacted, preferably catalytically, to effect complete oxidation of the contaminant to at least one oxidized product whose concentration in the system can be readily and quantitatively determined. Since ratio of the contaminant concentration to the product concentration is known, the method provides a simple and effective method of measuring a contaminant concentration which would otherwise be incapable of measurement or capable of measurement only very difficultly. The method is capable of attaining the detection limits required by the most demanding industrial processes of less than 1000 ppt, 500 ppt, or 10 ppt for such contaminants as hydrocarbons, organocarbons and siloxanes. Through rapid quantitative measurements of the oxidized products, contaminant concentration monitoring can operate on substantially a real time basis.

Abstract: A method of measuring the effective temperature inside a sealed container having a headspace is provided. A liquid solvent is added to the container, and a solid compound is added to the liquid solvent to create a saturated solution. Vapor of the saturated solution is allowed to equilibrate in the headspace of the sealed container, and a volume thereof is transferred to a chromatographic column, where chromatographic readings of the equilibrated vapor are taken. A temperature within the sealed container is then calculated based upon the chromatographic readings of the equilibrated vapor, wherein the temperature calculation is based upon the concentrations of the liquid solvent and the solid compound in the equilibrated vapor.

Abstract: Mass spectrometry of large nucleic acids by infrared Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (MALDI) using a liquid matrix is reported.

Abstract: The present invention provides an ozone detecting material comprising a polymer prepared by polymerization of at least one monomer selected from the group consisting of aniline, aniline having a halogen substituent at the 2-position, aniline having a halogen substituent at the 3-position, aniline having a halogen substituent at the 4-position, aniline having a C1-3 alkyl substituent at the N-position, toluidine and diphenylamine; and a method for detecting ozone comprising the steps of contacting this ozone detecting material with an ozone-containing gas and determining the light absorption rate and/or electrical conductivity of the ozone detecting material at that time.

Abstract: A breath test and kit for performing the breath test are described for the diagnosis of diabetic indications and monitoring of glycemic control. The breath test utilizes the measurement of expired 13C-labeled CO2 following the ingestion of a 13C-enriched glucose source.

Abstract: Use of 13C glucose in an analytical assay to monitor glucose metabolism by measurement of labeled exhaled CO2 is provided. A breath test and kit for performing the breath test are described for the diagnosis of diabetic indications and monitoring of glycemic control. The breath test utilizes the measurement of expired 13C-labeled CO2 following the ingestion of a 13C-enriched glucose source.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for detecting mercury in a sample solution, the mercury being contained in the sample solution in cationic form and as an organic compound, by means of a detection device comprising an atomic spectroscope provided with a measuring cell which is suitable for detecting mercury gas, a noble-metal concentrator for concentrating the mercury and a control unit, the mercury being converted into the gas phase and being adapted to be concentrated by means of the noble-metal concentrator. The method according to the present invention is characterized in that the control unit controls the supply of the mercury gas to the measuring cell in such a way that, in addition to the measurement of the concentrated mercury, mercury gas of the same sample, which has not been subjected to the concentration step, is introduced in the measuring cell for the purpose of measurement.

Abstract: Chemical indicator inks for steam-formaldehyde sterilization processes. The chemical indicator ink contains at least one primary organic dye selected from the group consisting of Congo red, Benzo purpurin B, Chicago sky blue 6B, Direct red 75, Evans blue, Naphthol blue black, Nitro red, and combinations thereof. The organic dye undergoes an irreversible color change when exposed to formaldehyde vapor in the presence of steam, but will not change color when exposed to other sterilization processes. The chemical indicator ink can further contain at least one secondary organic dye which does not undergo a color change when exposed to formaldehyde vapor in the presence of steam.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device, system and method for desiccation of liquid samples. The device includes multiple concentration chambers, each having a gas inlet and a gas vent. Methods of using the device to desiccate multiple liquid samples also are provided. The device may be assembled with a processing device to form a module. Such modules may be assembled to form a system designed, e.g., to provide automated chemical analyses of liquid samples. The system is particularly useful for modular, high-throughput chemical processing, especially in the fields of genomics and proteomics.

Abstract: A membrane capable of sensing gaseous phase ammonia is provided. The membrane includes a hydrophobic membrane layer that has a microporous structure and a pH sensitive dye embedded within the microporous structure such that the membrane is capable of calorimetrically sensing a change in ammonia with a high degree of sensitivity and responsiveness as applied to, for example, a change in ammonia dissolved in a dialysis solution during dialysis therapy.

Abstract: A gas chromatography system having a computer-controlled pressure controller that delivers pressurized pulses to a column junction point of two series-coupled columns having different stationary-phase chemistries and a method of using the same. Each pressurized pulse causes a differential change in the carrier gas velocities in the two columns, which lasts for the duration of the pressurized pulse. Whereby, the pressurized pulse selectively increases the separation of a component pair that exhibits separation at the exit of the first column, but otherwise co-elutes from the column ensemble.

Abstract: This invention relates to a modulator for use in gas chromatographic analysis, adopted for alternatively trapping and releasing fractions of solutes in a length of a capillary column within a chromatographic oven, characterized in that it comprises at least one nozzle placed to spray at least one jet in at least one corresponding place along said capillary column length, said nozzle(s) being connected each to a source of liquid CO2 via a related valve, and means for alternatively opening said valve(s) for a predetermined time, to cause a jet of liquid CO2 to impinge for said predetermined time on said column place and to leave the oven atmosphere to heat said column place after said predetermined time. The modulator can be used in a conventional GC system or in a two dimensional GC system, for modulating the analytes fed to the second capillary column.

Abstract: A radiative transport band model algorithm has been developed for prediction and analysis of high spectral resolution radiometric measurements. Atomic and molecular line center absorption is determined from finite spectral bin equivalent widths. A new mathematically exact expansion for finite bin equivalent widths provides high accuracy at any desired spectral resolution. The temperature and pressure dependent Voigt line tail spectral absorption contributing to each spectral bin is pre-computed and fit to Padé approximants for rapid and inaccurate accounting of neighboring-to-distant lines.

Abstract: An airborne contaminant indicating device adapted for attachment to a person's nose for indicating the presence of a contaminant entrained in an air stream passing through the nose. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the device is a clip with a proximal “UU” shaped dilating portion adapted to be inserted within the nostrils; the “U's” being connected to one another medially by an elastically deformable extension portion, the extension portion being two straight parallel strips, one end of the strips being integral with the dilating portion and the opposing end of the strip integral with an arcuate septum attachment portion. The septum attachment portion spaces the distal ends of the strips of the extension portion so that the strips straddle and gently squeeze the nasal septum. The device has a contaminant-interactive coated surface in contact with a portion of the air passing through the nose. The design of the embodiment provides maximum air flow through the nostrils.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of making a bismuth molybdate precursor solution using a metallorganic decomposition (MOD) process consisting of the formation of a precursor sol of hexanoates of Bismuth (Bi) and Molybdenum (Mo). The precursor solution is used to make thin film of Bismuth molybdate by spin coating and spray pyrolysis. The bismuth molybdate films have the useful alpha and gamma phases having high sensitivity to ethanol gas, the detection of the ethanol gas is based upon the change of electrical conductivity of a thick film of the semiconductor oxide sensing element resulting from the ethanol gas in an oxygen-containing atmosphere. When the drying is effected by spray pyrolysis, quite thick films with high adhesion have been produced over different substrates, including quartz. The thin film of the present invention made by spray pyrolysis has a very fast response to ethanol detection eg typically 5 seconds.

Abstract: An airtight configuration for keeping down the permeation of corrosive gas from silicone adhesive, and for preventing corrosive gas from entering the case.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for monitoring the presence of an analyte in a closed vial wherein a sample contained within the closed vial is conveyed to an analyzer. The analyzer determines a value of a spectral property dependent on analyte concentration at a position within a headspace formed above the sample within the vial. An indicator is used to compare the measured value of the spectral property with a predetermined limit criteria to determine the presence or absence of the analyte. Vials wherein the presence of the analyte is detected are indicated as product vials whereas vials wherein the absence of the analyte is detected are indicated as rejected vials. The rejected vials are conveyed by a transferrer to a rejected vial station. A first portion of the product vials are conveyed by a sampler to a sample collection station. A second portion of the product vials are conveyed to a labeler.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improvement in a detection system used for continuously measuring the release of a drug from a pharmaceutical dosage form comprising a singular dissolution vessel or multiple dissolution vessels containing a dissolution medium and a measuring device for detecting the amount of drug released at a given time, the improvement comprising a mixing shaft and a probe placed within the mixing shaft or outside the individual dissolution vessels, the probe capable of measuring the dissolution characteristics using UV, IR, near-IR, fluorescence, electrochemical, and Raman spectroscopy techniques. The present invention also relates to a method for predicting the dissolution curve provided by a controlled release pharmaceutical dosage form comprising taking continuous measurements of the amount of drug released from a dosage form for a portion of the time over which the drug is expected to be released and predicting the remainder of the dissolution curve based on the values obtained.

Abstract: A method and system for determining a concentration level of NOx in an exhaust stream from a combustion source. The method comprises capturing sample gas from the exhaust stream using a sampling device. NO2 in the sample gas is converted to NO by passing the sample gas through a catalytic NO2 converter. The method also comprises removing water from the sample gas by passing the sample gas through a dryer and determining a sample gas NO concentration level. The step of converting NO2 is performed at a temperature above the dew point temperature of the sample gas.

Abstract: Use of a nebulizer add-gas to reduce metal deposition on the sampling orifices of an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (“ICP-MS”) is disclosed. Specifically, dilute mixtures of Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) in an inert gas have been used to reduce transition metal deposition on the sampling orifices of an ICP-MS, thereby greatly enhancing the stability of the ICP-MS sensitivity over time without corroding the internal parts and/or chemically attacking the cones of the ICP-MS.

Abstract: A single pass analyzer includes multiple infrared sensors, a catalytic converter, a scrubber and a thermal conductivity cell all coupled in series to provide a single pass (i.e., one sample) analyzer which allows for fast analysis, allows for the speciation of hydrogen samples, requires no purging between different sample types, utilizes a single carrier gas, and eliminates molecular sieves and Shutze converters. The resultant analyzer provides improved quicker results with less plumbing (i.e., gas conduits and valving) in a single instrument.

Abstract: A hydrocarbon sensor and collector. An element that is capable of absorbing and releasing hydrocarbons is positioned in the air intake system of a vehicle, upstream from the engine and wholly in the airflow. The element has a plurality of chambers defined in it that allow air to pass through the element. The hydrocarbon sensor and collector also includes a means for detecting the level of hydrocarbons absorbed by the element.

Abstract: A method and system for determining a concentration level of NOx in an exhaust stream from a combustion source. The method comprises capturing sample gas from the exhaust stream using a sampling device. NO2 in the sample gas is converted to NO by passing the sample gas through a catalytic NO2 converter. The method also comprises removing water from the sample gas by passing the sample gas through a dryer and determining a sample gas NO concentration level. The step of converting NO2 is performed at a temperature above the dew point temperature of the sample gas.

Abstract: A collector is provided which is capable of simultaneously capturing and collecting particulate and gaseous chlorinated organic compounds contained in a fluid. The collector 3 includes a housing 6 and a captor 7 disposed within the housing 6. The captor 7 includes a tubular porous core member 7a of a sintered glass having one end closed with a close member 7c, and a gas-permeable sheet 7b fitted around the core member 7a. The gas-permeable sheet 7b is, for example, a paper-like sheet having a fibrous activated carbon and inorganic fibers. The particulate and gaseous chlorinated organic compounds contained in a gas sample flowing into the captor through a sampling tube 2 are simultaneously collected and removed from the gas sample by the core member 7a and the gas-permeable sheet 7b, and the gas sample free from the chlorinated organic compounds is then discharged from an outlet port 6b.

Abstract: The present invention describes novel methods for making a substrate for selective cell patterning, and the substrates themselves, wherein the method comprises contacting reactive hydroxyl groups on the surface of a substrate with a hydroxyl-reactive bifunctional molecule to form a monolayer, and using stencils to deposit cell repulsive or cell adhesive moieties in controlled locations on the cell culture substrate. Methods comprising selective differentiation of stem cells to create tissue specific and organ-specific cell substrates, as well as the cell substrates themselves are also provided.

Abstract: A portable instrument for automatic collection and analysis of airborne lead concentrations in ambient air environments. Its improvements to the art of airborne lead detection and analysis permit the apparatus to analyze samples previously collected by personal monitors, for example, worn on the clothing of personnel working in contaminated sites. The apparatus also brings to the art of lead analysis a method of contaminant collection that ensures a greater capture efficiency of airborne contaminants, thereby increasing the accuracy of the instrument and its measurement capabilities while providing near real-time analysis and measurement in a portable self-contained battery-powered device. The apparatus also offers a remarkable improvement in the reduction of wastes incurred in the collection and analysis of airborne lead contaminants which is a novel method of concentrating the samples and recycling the analysis media used to concentrate and solubilize lead contaminants.

Abstract: An analytical apparatus including a hydride generator coupled with a a laser-based detection device, with the generator suitable for generating hydrides from a sample, and the detection device positioned to receive hydrides from the hydride generator, and to provide information regarding quantity, identity, presence and/or species of the hydride. A method of processing a sample includes generating hydrides from the sample, and generating information regarding quantity, identity, presence and/or species of the hydride.