Patent ID: 6541272
Filing Date: 2003-04-01
Classification: G01N,Y10T

Abstract:
An apparatus for the continuous on-line or discrete individual separation and analysis of at least one component of a fluid sample, the apparatus comprising:a feed chamber having an entrance and an exit; a first flow means upstream of said feed chamber for flowing a first carrier fluid through said feed chamber; pulse injection means for injecting a pulse of fluid sample containing at least one component into said first carrier fluid, said first carrier fluid being different from said sample and said component, such that said pulse of fluid sample enters said feed chamber in said carrier fluid; an exit chamber downstream from said feed chamber; at least one membrane through which said at least one component can selectively permeate, wherein said at least one membrane is located between said feed chamber and said exit chamber and in fluid registry therewith; a detector in fluid communication with said exit chamber, wherein said detector is operative to analyze said at least one component that passes through said membrane and enters said exit chamber; and a second flow means for flowing said at least one component which passes through said at least one membrane and enters said exit chamber, to said detector.