Patent ID: 6218193
Filing Date: 2001-04-17
Classification: B01F,B01L,G01N,Y10T

Abstract:
A method of mixing discrete fluid segments in a constant-diameter, straight capillary tube that has first and second open ends, comprising:introducing a first fluid volume into the first end of the capillary tube, so as to form a first fluid segment within the tube;introducing a second fluid volume into the first end of the capillary tube, while simultaneously drawing a partial vacuum at the second end of the capillary tube, so as to move the first fluid segment further into the capillary tube and form a second fluid segment within the capillary tube, separated from the first fluid segment by an air gap; andoscillating the fluid segments within the capillary tube in opposite directions and at different velocities to cause the fluid segments to mix within the capillary tube.