Patent ID: 6368870
Filing Date: 2002-04-09
Classification: G01N,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for determining the presence of a volatile component in a test sample, the method comprising the steps of:(a) providing a first vessel with an open top and a gas-tight closure member for said top; (b) providing a second vessel with an open top and a closed lower end, wherein the length and diameter of said second vessel are less than the corresponding length and diameter of said first vessel such that said second vessel can be fitted wholly within said first vessel; wherein said second vessel includes liquid indicator means capable of indicating the presence of said volatile component; (c) introducing said test sample into said first vessel along with reagent means capable of liberating said volatile component; (d) introducing said second vessel into said first vessel; (e) installing said closure member on said top of said first vessel; (f) heating said sample in said first vessel to an elevated temperature, whereby said volatile component in said first vessel passes into said second vessel to cause a change in said indicator; and (g) measuring said change in said indicator to determine the amount of said volatile component produced from said sample wherein said elevated temperature is sufficient to liberate volatile components from the first vessel.