Abstract: An apparatus for separating an analyte from a mixture or for detecting an analyte or for determining the affinity, or a property related to affinity, between binding partners includes: a) a surface having the analyte or one of the binding partners immobilized thereon, in use; b) a transducer for oscillating the surface; c) a controller connected to the transducer for varying the amplitude and/or frequency of the oscillation to cause a dissociation event; and, d) an analyzer connected to the transducer for detecting an oscillation of the transducer due to the dissociation event. The controller includes an oscillator connected in a resonant circuit with the transducer such that the transducer oscillates at two frequencies simultaneously, one of these causing the transducer to oscillate the surface and the other being supplied as an output to the analyzer.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for measuring and detecting properties of a variety of particles or cells in suspension. Properties, such as, for example, velocity of particles, concentration and/or size may be measured according to the methods of the invention. Acoustic energy may be introduced to a focal zone and narrow band interrogating signals may be used. The acoustic energy may cause movement or streaming of the fluid or suspension. The acoustic streaming may allow a Doppler effect measurement without any other source of velocity.

Abstract: A system for early detection of component failure in a hydraulic system comprises a particle detection device disposed in a fluid flow channel of a machine, the particle detection device configured to monitor a current particle count associated with fluid flowing through the fluid flow channel. The system further includes a condition monitoring system in wireless data communication with the particle detection device. The condition monitoring system is configured to receive data indicative of the current particle count and analyze historic particle count data collected by the particle detection device. The condition monitoring system is also configured to estimate a trend in the historic particle count data based on the analysis. A failure event associated with one or more components associated with the fluid flow channel is predicted if the data indicative of the current particle count deviates from the trend by a threshold amount.

Abstract: A Coulter-style, microfluidic sensor formed by stacking a plurality of substantially non-electrically conductive layers, typically formed from thin polymer films. Certain layers carry patterned electrodes that are arranged to permit their connection to an electrical interrogation circuit. Electrodes may be disposed in a 3-dimensional array in the sensor. A fluid path through the sensor includes an orifice sized to promote single-file travel of particles. The orifice may be defined by the entrance to a hole passing through at least one layer and at least one electrode. Particles entrained in an electrolytic carrier fluid may be detected, or otherwise characterized, by interrogation circuitry connected to the sensor. Certain sensors may include portions of a fluid path disposed parallel to the layers. In certain preferred embodiments, the sensor is carried by a cartridge, which is adapted to couple with an interrogation platform.

Abstract: A filtration based biological specimen collection and transfer device is provided. The filtration and transfer device comprises a tubular body with two axial ends, an annular flange disposed at one of the axial ends, and a biological specimen filter affixed to the outer surface of the annular flange. Preferably, the annular flange has disposed on its outer surface an annular ridge having a uniform height and forming a planar rim upon which the filter sits. Optionally, the annular flange comprises two mounting portions and the filter is bonded to each of those mounting portions. A method of collecting microscopic biological particles carried in a fluid is provided using the filtration and transfer device and a method of manufacturing the filtration and transfer device are also provided. A filtration based biological specimen collection and transfer system using the filtration and transfer device and a kit for use with filtration based biological specimen collection and transfer systems are also provided.

Abstract: The invention provides miniaturized lateral flow chromatographic and lateral flow chromatographic microarray devices (LFM). The miniaturization of lateral flow nucleic acid detection achieved by the present invention offers reduced reagent use, femtomole sensitivity, excellent linear dynamic range, and rapid detection. Moreover, the small feature sizes of capture oligonucleotides renders the potential information capacity of the platform comparable to more traditional spotted fluorescence microarrays as well as improving sensitivity. The LFM devices exemplified herein enable analytes to be detected within 10 seconds from the time of sample introduction to the LFM device. Sample volumes may be as low as about 10 microliters, significantly reducing assay costs and ameliorating reagent storage logistics. Additionally, the miniaturization of lateral flow opens the door to highly multiplexed assays, allowing many proteins or nucleic acids to be detected in a single assay.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a particle characterisation apparatus in which particles suspended in a liquid are passed through an aperture, in principle one by one, to enable characterisation of the particles, for instance by Coulter counting.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a device for measuring the streaming potential of fibers and particles in suspensions, in particular a device for determining the zeta-potential of the particles of aqueous suspensions containing fibers and particles, by measuring the streaming potential, and by subsequently computing the zeta-potential with an empirical formula. In the device of the invention, a periodic pressure curve is generated by arranging in the device for measuring the streaming potential at least two vacuum vessels, with each vessel having a different constant reduced pressure. The vacuum vessels are permanently set to a different vacuum and alternatingly connected via a valve to the measurement cell with the fiber plug. The required reduced pressure in the two vacuum vessels is maintained by using at least one small, low-capacity vacuum pump and a valve controller.

Abstract: The method is for monitoring water quality in a water system. A water pipe is provided for conveying water therein. A particle sensor is in operative engagement with the water pipe. The particle sensor continuously counts particles in the water of the water pipe. The particle sensor triggers the taking of a water sample only when the particle count reaches a predetermined level.

Abstract: Systems and methods consistent with embodiments of the present invention provide a method for the measurement and analysis of particle counts in flow cytometry and hematology instruments. In some methods for the measurement and analysis of particle counts, a corrected histogram of particle distributions is calculated and used to obtain an accurate count of particles and an accurate measurement of other particle parameters.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dispensing device for droplets comprising a first channel (8, 10), known as main channel, for circulation of a first fluid flow, a second channel (12, 13) for circulation of fluid, which forms with the first channel an intersection zone (27) and terminates in an ejection orifice (20), means (4) for measuring a physical property particles or cells in the first channel (18), and means for engendering a pressure wave in the second channel (12, 13).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for continuously extracting liquid in at least two separate streams from a vessel, continuously diluting and/or conditioning a first stream in one or more stages, producing, as a result of the extraction, dilution and/or conditioning, the first stream consisting of a dispersion of particles to be characterized, and diluting and/or conditioning a second stream, the second stream consisting of soluble components; and subjecting the first and second streams to various characterizing measurements.

Abstract: An electronic system for use in a body of fluid is disclosed. The electronic system includes a first housing element and a second housing element. The second housing element is hermetically sealed to the first housing element, forming a first chamber there between. An electronic circuit is mounted within the first chamber. The electronic system further includes a second chamber internal to the second housing element. The second chamber is configured for holding a power source for the electronic circuit. Preferably, the power source is a battery pack. Also, the electronic system includes means for temporarily sealing the second chamber. Preferably, means for temporarily sealing the second chamber includes a detachable plug configured for coupling to the second housing element.

Abstract: A system and method for manufacturing oral osmotic drug delivery devices including the use of a mathematical model in deriving relationships between parameters used in manufacturing the devices for a desired release rate of the active drug substance contained therein. The derived relationship is then used to control the parameters so that the active substance within the device is delivered at a desired rate. Methods of administering the oral osmotic drug delivery devices are also provided. Use of a mathematical model in deriving relationships between parameters used in the drug granulation process for a desired range of percentage fines of the drug granulation substance. The derived relationship is then used to control the parameters in the drug granulation process so that the desired percentage fines are obtained in the drug granulation substance.

Abstract: A method for detecting particle agglomeration in CMP slurries. In accordance with an implementation of the invention, a CMP slurry is tested for abrasive particle agglomeration by applying an ultra high shearing force to the slurry and analyzing its rheological behavior. Through the comparison of slurry rheological behavior, implementations of the invention make it possible to detect particle agglomeration in a slurry and to distinguish between fresh and aged slurries.

Abstract: Systems and methods used to monitor a fluid where it is important to know the size, concentration and nature of particulates in the fluid. For example, the systems and method can be used to diagnose contamination issues in fluids such as fuel, lubrication, power transfer, heat exchange or other fluids in fluid systems, for example diesel engines or hydraulic systems, where contaminant particles in the fluids are of concern.

Abstract: There is disclosed apparatus for directing particles entrained in a fluid, comprising a chamber having a first wall, including means for generating a sound wave having a frequency v, and a second, opposite wall capable of reflecting the sound wave in which the first and second wall define a conduit for the passage of the fluid, and in which the thickness of the second wall is such that the path length of the standing wave in the second wall is a multiple of about ½ the wavelength ?r of the sound wave therein.

Abstract: Disclosed devices and methods for droplet microchromatograhy are aimed at optical monitoring and rapid analysis of a drying droplet. The device includes droplet deposition component preferably made as a modified disk adapted to fit in a modified CD disk drive, an optical recorder, and a computer control and image analysis. Recorded timed sequence of images of the process of drying of the droplet is digitally filtered and analyzed using windows selected in each image. Changes of predetermined parameters in each window for each image are calculated to assess temporal and spatial dynamics within the sequence of images reflecting sedimentary pattern formation of a drying droplet. Humidity can be selectively controlled to slow down the drying process allowing “zooming” onto the critical periods of drying of the droplet. Various chemical coatings of the deposition means can be used to enhance the test further.

Abstract: A method for evaluating contamination measurement values of solid particle (6) contamination in fluids in a system (1), in particular in hydraulic and/or lubricating fluids, wherein said contamination measurement values being represented by counting, within a volume of said fluid, at least one number of particles (6) having a particle size in at least one predetermined particle size range, said method for evaluating comprising the steps of: comparing said counted number with at least one predetermined threshold value (22, 24, W, A, S) resulting in a present comparison result, reading a previous comparison result corresponding to a previous counted number from a history file, choosing an appropriate control signal to control said system (1), said choice being based on said present comparison result and at least one previous comparison result.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention provide, for example, a system and method for automatically adjusting the inoculum level of a sample. Certain embodiments of the present invention may measure a concentration of particles present in a preliminary sample using a sensor device and determine an amount of diluent to be added to or removed from a sample container to prepare a sample having a selected concentration of particles, corresponding to a selected inoculum level. Embodiments of the present invention may also automatically add or remove the diluent using an automated fluidics system so as to prepare a sample having the selected particle concentration. Once the selected particle concentration is achieved and verified, some embodiments may also remove at least a portion of the sample from the sample container such that the container contains a selected volume of the sample.

Abstract: An electrochemical sensor apparatus and method for measuring scale, such as mineral scale or other particulates, which deposit on the surface of pipelines or process equipment. The device has an electrochemical cell with a working electrode and fluid flow control means positioned so as to release a fluid jet onto the working electrode. The velocity of the fluid jet is controllable and is defined by the Reynolds number of the fluid when the fluid is in the fluid flow control means. Measurement of the electrical output from the electrochemical cell and the Reynolds number provide a measure of the build-up of scale on the working electrode.

Abstract: The present invention is to present a blood analyzer which can prevent an abnormal number of white blood cells caused by the lipid particles or the red blood cells of poor hemolysis from being output. The blood analyzer comprises: first white blood cell number obtaining means; second white blood cell number obtaining means; output means for outputting the number of the white blood cells obtained by the second white blood cell number obtaining means, and determining means for determining whether the number of the white blood cells obtained by the second white blood cell number obtaining means is abnormal, wherein the output means is configured to output the number of the white blood cells obtained by the first white blood cell number obtaining means when the determining means determines that the number of the white blood cells obtained by the second white blood cell number obtaining means is abnormal.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a semiconductor and an apparatus for measuring slurry quality. The apparatus includes a plurality of slurry supply devices, a plurality of semiconductor processing devices, and an in-line monitoring system. The slurry supply devices have slurry supply lines. The semiconductor processing devices receive slurry from each of the slurry supply devices through the slurry supplying lines to perform semiconductor processing. The in-line monitoring system includes a plurality of sampling lines diverging from the plurality of slurry supplying lines. The particle sizes of the slurry are measured through each of the sampling lines. The monitoring system maintains the slurry quality in real time to increase yield from CMP (chemical-mechanical polishing).

Abstract: A coating for sensor transducers that transmit a signal to—and/or receive a signal from—a fluid, either liquid or gas, in contact with the transducer. In particular the coating minimizes or eliminates fouling of the transducer surface by the fluid, reducing the need for transducer maintenance, while not interfering with the transducer's ability to send and/or receive signals.

Abstract: This device provides for measuring the particulate content in a fluid storage tank. A sample of fluid is taken from a fluid storage tank; and compared to a field visual reference chart. Using this chart results in identifying tanks containing a maximum or average particulate allowable.

Abstract: A system for measuring a mixture ratio associated with a two-part fluid, at least one of the two parts including conductive particles. The system includes a pair of electrodes, a circuit, and an output. The electrodes are disposed on opposite sides of the two-part fluid and sense the dielectric strength of the fluid. The circuit communicates with the electrodes to sense the dielectric strength and outputs a signal representing the dielectric strength. Preferably, the circuit includes a capacitive bridge, an input for a set-point, and an output for an error signal. Also, the system can include a housing for the electrodes. A timer may also be provided to measure the time elapsed from the beginning of the mixing of the two-part fluid. Preferably, the two-part fluid is an adhesive with aluminum particles that is made from a resin and a hardener. Methods of producing two-part fluids are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a measuring instrument (1) comprising a channel (60) for moving a sample liquid (BL) containing a solid component (B1) and providing a liquid reaction field and first and second electrodes (31, 32) which are used to apply voltage to the liquid reaction field. The first electrode (31) has an electron transfer interface (31a) for transferring electrons between it and the liquid reaction field when voltage is applied to the liquid reaction field via the first and second electrodes (31, 32). The measuring instrument (1) comprises concentrating means (51) for increasing the concentration of solid components at portions thereof which contact the electron transfer interface (31a) in the liquid reaction field. The concentrating means (51) preferably comprises a water-absorbing layer containing an absorbent polymer material.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for analytical testing comprises a test cartridge for use in conducting an analytical test including a test medium and an RFID device. An encoding device is provided adapted to preprogram the RFID with information relating to the test. An analytical detection device including a RFID transceiver adapted to transfer data to and from the RFID device is coupled to test detection instrumentation adapted to analyze the test medium in response to the information relating to the test.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the stability of dispersions and emulsions accelerates the onset of significant particle agglomeration in a sample by stressing the sample by reducing the height of the interparticle potential energy barrier between the particles. This is achieved by adding one or more of three stress factors: changing the pH of the sample to reduce the surface charge on the particles; adding an adsorbing electrolyte so that ions of the appropriate charge are adsorbed onto the surfaces of the particles to reduce the net charge on the particles; and applying a monovalent, divalent, or trivalent salt to partially screen electrostatic repulsions between the charged particles. In a preferred embodiment, the increase in agglomeration is detected with single particle detection, such as SPOS, to generate a PSD from which a figure of merit is derived. Another embodiment detects turbidity or light scattering to generate a value X indicative of the extent of agglomeration.

Abstract: A system for determining properties of settling suspensions includes a settling container, a mixer, and devices for ultrasonic interrogation transverse to the settling direction. A computer system controls operation of the mixer and the interrogation devices and records the response to the interrogating as a function of settling time, which is then used to determine suspension properties. Attenuation versus settling time for dilute suspensions, such as dilute wood pulp suspension, exhibits a peak at different settling times for suspensions having different properties, and the location of this peak is used as one mechanism for characterizing suspensions. Alternatively or in addition, a plurality of ultrasound receivers are arranged at different angles to a common transmitter to receive scattering responses at a variety of angles during particle settling. Angular differences in scattering as a function of settling time are also used to characterize the suspension.

Abstract: An acoustic detector based on rupture event scanning (“REVS”) with a detection setup allowing the monitoring of REVS signals near the driving frequency and with optimized impedance matching between the REVS crystal and the front-end of the detection circuitry for use in detecting the presence of particles such as bacteria, viruses, or other particulates in liquid samples with extreme high sensitivity.

Abstract: Methods to predict the rheological properties of composition comprising a filler in a matrix are described. The present invention further involves determining the difference between the work of cohesion and the work of ahhesion for a filler and a matrix in order to quantitatively predict the rheological properties of the system, such as yield point. The ability to predict such properties has numerous advantages. The present invention further relates to a rheological master curve and a method to produce the curve which permits one to predict a rheological property of a composition comprising a filler in a matrix based on the particular polymer used and the particular filler used. Also disclosed is a method of method of choosing a filler to achieve a desired rheological property using the rheological master curve described herein.

Abstract: An acoustic detector based on rupture event scanning (“REVS”) with a detection setup allowing the monitoring of REVS signals near the driving frequency and with optimized impedance matching between the REVS crystal and the front-end of the detection circuitry for use in detecting the presence of particles such as bacteria, viruses, or other particulates in liquid samples with extreme high sensitivity.

Abstract: An autoclave reactor allows for the ultrasonic analysis of slurry concentration and particle size distribution at elevated temperatures and pressures while maintaining the temperature- and pressure-sensitive ultrasonic transducers under ambient conditions. The reactor vessel is a hollow stainless steel cylinder containing the slurry which includes a stirrer and a N2 gas source for directing gas bubbles through the slurry. Input and output transducers are connected to opposed lateral portions of the hollow cylinder for respectively directing sound waves through the slurry and receiving these sound waves after transmission through the slurry, where changes in sound wave velocity and amplitude can be used to measure slurry parameters. Ultrasonic adapters connect the transducers to the reactor vessel in a sealed manner and isolate the transducers from the hostile conditions within the vessel without ultrasonic signal distortion or losses.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for characterizing cells in a biological liquid sample and operating according to the Coulter principle. The apparatus has a disposable sensor unit and a docking station for removably receiving the sensor unit. The sensor unit housing contains electrodes in each of two chambers separated by a wall containing an orifice. The housing is adapted to contain and retain for disposal liquid pumped through the orifice during particle characterization operations.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for analyzing the maintenance status of liquid-filled electric equipment. An accurate indication of the maintenance state of an electric device and its insulating liquid is obtained using an analysis method comprising a particle analysis of suspended particles and sediment contained in the liquid. The analysis method can further comprise a chemical analysis of the insulating liquid. This analysis results in profiles of the liquid that give an accurate indication of the maintenance state of the electric device.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a method and a device for machine diagnosis and, in particular, for transmission diagnosis in a machine or motor vehicle. The measurement system, according to the invention, comprises a coil (2) wound on a coil core (11), on the surface of which ferritic wear particles (3) to be detected accumulate. Opposite the coil (2) a rotating toothed wheel (6) is arranged which influences the inductance of the coil (2). The output signal of the coil (2) is pulsed with a constant amplitude, the pulse frequency depends on the rotation speed of the toothed wheel (6). Deviations of the amplitude are attributable to the accumulation of ferritic wear particles (3) on the coil (2) and therefore provide a measurement of the condition of the machine or transmission.

Abstract: A system which receives as inputs various measurements of solids and liquids in a clarification system and, from these measurements, determines the various constituents and their fractional makeup within the system. The measurements may be made manually or mechanically, but are preferably made manually. From a quantitative analysis of easily accessible sample points, data is acquired and plugged into a spread sheet program, which numerically and graphically displays the breakdown of the constituents which make up the solids and liquids discharged from a treatment stage or of the entire system.

Abstract: A sediment measuring device has a base that is fixed into the bottom of a body of water. A removable trap, having a retaining matrix, inserts into the fixed base to capture and retain moving sediment within the trap over a given period of time. The trap is removed from the base, and may be replaced with a second trap, after which the trapped sediment is measured.

Abstract: Methods for recovery of tartrate-containing, insoluble solids from an essentially settled grape-based mixture. More generally, methods for the recovery of insoluble solids, that have a predetermined characteristic from essentially settled mixtures are disclosed. The methods include performing proxy analyses on samples taken from the mixtures in order to determine at what time recovery should begin and end. Performing titration is detailed as a particular proxy analysis.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for automatically measuring BS&W of a hydrocarbon stream uses a Coriolis meter or densitometer to measure raw stream density, followed by separation of water and sediment from the hydrocarbon by at least one cyclonic separator, followed by measuring the density of the stream after separation. A BS&W calculator/controller processes the density measurements and produces a percentage BS&W signal. Preferably, a temperature sensor measures the temperature of the stream before or after separation and the temperature measurement is used to back-calculate volumetric flow rate.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for analyzing the maintenance status of liquid-filled electric equipment. An accurate indication of the maintenance state of an electric device and its insulating liquid is obtained using an analysis method comprising a particle analysis of suspended particles and sediment contained in the liquid. The analysis method can further comprise a chemical analysis of the insulating liquid. This analysis results in profiles of the liquid that give an accurate indication of the maintenance state of the electric device.

Abstract: The present invention comprises methods, compositions and apparatus for cleaning the surfaces within vessels that have restricted points of entry, and in particular, the surfaces within oxygen converters and oxygen cylinders. These oxygen converters and oxygen cylinders are components of the onboard oxygen supply systems of aircraft. A surfactant and a solvent are mixed to form a cleaning composition that is boiled at reduced pressure and increased temperature within the oxygen converter or oxygen cylinder. The oxygen converter or oxygen cylinder is rinsed with pure solvent, and the rinse fluid is measured to determine the level of contaminants. Dry air is forced through the oxygen converter or oxygen cylinder to remove remaining solvent. The cleaning composition may comprise a fluorocarbon solvent and a fluorosurfactant.

Abstract: A system and method of measuring a level of settled particles in a fluid-containing vessel includes the steps of fluidizing particles from a position below the settled level of particles, and measuring a static pressure of liquid within the vessel at a position in the vessel below the settled level of particles. The fluidized static pressure is correlated to a level of settled particles within the vessel using an experimentally determined relationship. The apparatus includes an inlet pipe into the vessel at a position below the settled level of particles, and a pump which recirculates liquid from the vessel above the submerged level of particles, remote from the settled level of particles, and a static pressure instrument connected to the inlet pipe. A solids pump can be activated to remove settled particles from the vessel, the operation of the pump being controlled by the measured level of settled particles.

Abstract: A method of detecting a boundary of fluid flowing through a pipe, the method comprising receiving a time-varying signal corresponding to changes in content flowing through the pipe analysing said signal in the time domain, said analysing including processing said signal to produce a processed signal, searching said processed signal for a predetermined feature so as to identify a location of said boundary if said predetermined feature is found.

Abstract: A method and device for performing fluid analysis by separating cells and/or particles from a fluid, such as a biological, vehicular or industrial fluid. The device is a micromachined filtering device comprising a substrate with through-thickness vias having approximately equal diameters that prevent passage through the substrate of a first material while permitting passage through the substrate of other materials having diametrical dimensions less than the diameter of the vias. Electrodes are located on a surface of the substrate between vias so that as the first material collects at the surface of the substrate, the electrodes become electrically connected to produce an output signal in some proportion to the amount of the first material collected. The device can incorporate multiple micromachined substrates, yielding an analysis system that produces an electrical output for each of a number of properties or parameters.

Abstract: A system for detecting particles in a clean environment includes and ensemble manifold having a plurality of sample ports, a delivery port, and flow junction having no open-close valves or other flow selectors connecting all of said sample ports to said delivery port. In one embodiment, the ensemble manifold is mounted directly on a particle detector using a snap-on connector. A plurality of fluid sources are located in a clean environment, each of the fluid sources fluidically connected to one of the sample ports.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for inspecting deposition characteristics of a deposit on the surface of a protective film predominantly containing carbon of a magnetic recording medium, which medium includes a disk and the protective film formed on the disk, the disk including a non-magnetic substrate, a non-magnetic undercoat layer, and a magnetic layer, the layers being formed on the substrate, wherein the method includes comparing a predetermined threshold with the extraction amount of an inspection gas component and/or a compound component formed so as to contain the inspection gas component, the gas component and/or the compound component being extracted with an inspection solvent after the magnetic recording medium is allowed to stand in an atmosphere of the inspection gas component; a process for producing a magnetic recording medium in which the extraction amount is equal to or greater than the threshold, the extraction amount being obtained through the inspection method; and a magnetic recor

Abstract: A method including: sonicating a liquid suspension of first particles; and analyzing the liquid phase for second particles. An apparatus including: a sonicator adapted to sonicate a liquid suspension of first particles; and a first analyzer adapted to analyze the sonicated liquid phase for second particles. The method and apparatus can be used to analyze the adhesion force relationships between the main or host first particles and guest or surface additive second particles.

Abstract: An aerosol detector, particularly well suited for liquid chromatography applications, includes a corona discharge source controlled to selectively charge the non-volatile residue particles of an aerosol. The aerosol initially is composed of droplets of a liquid sample, with the residue particles resulting from droplet evaporation. The selectively charged residue particles, each carrying a charge in proportion to its size, are collected at a conductive filter. The electrical current along a conductor coupled to the filter is measured repeatedly or continuously to provide an indication of concentrations of the non-volatile material. Preferably, a pneumatic nebulizer is used to generate the aerosol. When used in a liquid chromatography system, the detector can yield several separated areas of relatively high electrical current, corresponding to concentrations of several different analytes in the liquid sample.