Patent ID: 7811525
Filing Date: 2010-10-12
Classification: B01F,B01J,B01L,C40B,G01N

Abstract:
1. A method for determining fluid bath quality using acoustic energy, the method comprising: providing a fluid bath, the fluid bath having a fluid bath quality; providing at least one sample in a vessel, the vessel being in contact with the fluid bath; generating focused acoustic energy directed through the fluid bath, the focused acoustic energy having a frequency of between about 100 kilohertz and about 100 megahertz and having a focal zone having a width of less than about 2 centimeters; monitoring an initial power signal from the focused acoustic energy; monitoring a reflected power signal from the focused acoustic energy after the focused acoustic energy is reflected off of a surface; and determining the fluid bath quality based upon a comparison of the initial power signal to the reflected power signal.