Patent ID: 6467950
Filing Date: 2002-10-22
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
An apparatus for measuring the mass loss of a sample undergoing thermal decomposition caused by an electric current introduced into said sample through a first and a second conductive lead projecting therefrom, said apparatus comprising:a. a mass-sensitive platform supporting said sample, said platform providing a signal indicating the mass of the sample supported; b. a first reservoir adjacent to said platform and containing a conductive fluid; c. a second reservoir adjacent to said platform and containing a conductive fluid; d. said first and second reservoirs electrically insulated from each other; e. said first conductive lead inserted into said conductive fluid contained in said first reservoir such that said first conductive lead is in contact only with said conductive fluid; f. said second conductive lead inserted into said conductive fluid contained in said second reservoir such that said second conductive lead is in contact only with said conductive fluid; g. means for accepting a potential difference between the conductive fluid in said first reservoir and the conductive fluid in said second reservoir such that an electrical current may flow from the conductive fluid in said first reservoir to said first conductive lead into said sample and thence from said second conductive lead into said conductive fluid contained in said second reservoir.