Patent Publication Number: US-11022527-B2

Title: Apparatus and methods of collecting and sampling fluids

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This Application is a Divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/676,577, filed on Apr. 1, 2015. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/676,577 claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/975,579, filed on Apr. 4, 2014. Each of the above mentioned patent applications are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Field of the Invention 
     Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to containers and methods for the collection, transportation and analysis of fluid samples. 
     Description of the Related Art 
     Having the ability to collect, differentiate and categorize different gas mixtures and their individual components has long been a necessity for the purposes of energy exploration and source identification of stray gases (i.e., differentiating gases from landfills, gas storage fields, producing wells, etc.). However, in order to do so successfully, one often needs to obtain samples from different potential source gases, and then submit the samples for detailed testing and comparison. Because analysis of the chemical composition can often be inconclusive in differentiating similar gases, isotope analysis of individual components of the gas can often provide an effective means of distinguishing two otherwise chemically identical gas sources. For instance, methane from a sanitary landfill is isotopically different from methane associated with petroleum. Similarly, isotope analysis of certain gas components can also provide insight to the mechanism of formation of the gases, and therefore give insight into the commercial viability of the gas source. Unfortunately, the transfer and shipment of hazardous materials (e.g., flammable and/or toxic gases) is often costly and usually requires specialized training. In some instances, air shipment of such gases is strictly forbidden (i.e. toxic gases). One such component of interest often associated with natural gas is hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S). 
     Typical ways of collecting gases containing hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) have included the use of containers like gas bags, chemically treated metal cylinders, and glass vials. Such containers are often fragile, expensive and unwieldy. In some instances, samples containing toxic concentrations of H 2 S are strictly forbidden on aircraft. In parts of the world where isotope analysis is not available, the only means of transporting such samples to a laboratory with isotope analysis capability would be via ocean freight, and then via ground transport. This procedure often consumes valuable time and resources, as the shipping of hazardous materials involves specialized training for the shipper as well as associated hazardous shipping fees and restrictions. H 2 S is also highly reactive and may react with the vessel in which it is contained. For instance, untreated stainless steel cylinders can completely “remove” H 2 S from a gas mixture. 
     Once in the lab, the current technology for extracting sulfur from H 2 S for isotopic analysis is to flow the gas through various solutions. The current solutions include cadmium acetate, silver phosphate, zinc acetate, and silver phosphate/silver nitrate solutions. All of these methods utilize liquid solutions and except for zinc acetate are hazardous. 
     Therefore, there is a need for improved containers and methods for the collection, transportation, and analysis of fluid samples. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to containers and methods for the collection, transportation and analysis of fluid samples. 
     In one embodiment, an isolating container for removing a component from a fluid sample includes a body defining a sampling chamber having a first end and a second end; a first valve assembly coupled to the first end; a reactant material positioned within the sampling chamber for reacting with the component; and a second valve assembly coupled to the second end, wherein the fluid sample enters the sampling chamber through the first valve assembly and exits through the second valve assembly. 
     In another embodiment, a method for collecting a fluid sample includes flowing the fluid sample into an isolating container, wherein the isolating container includes a reactant material; removing a component from the fluid sample by reacting the component with the reactant material; and collecting the fluid sample leaving the isolating container into a sample container. 
     In another embodiment, a sample container for collecting a fluid sample includes a container body; a flat end portion; and a valve assembly disposed at the flat end portion for accessing the interior of the container body. 
     In another embodiment, an adapter for coupling a Luer activated valve to an activating device includes a connect body having a bore, a first end for coupling with the Luer activated valve, and a second end for coupling with the activating device; and a pin movably disposed in the bore of the connect body, wherein the pin is movable by the activating device to activate the Luer activated valve. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. 
         FIGS. 1, 1A, and 1B  are different views of one embodiment of an isolating container assembly. 
         FIGS. 2-1 to 2-11  illustrate an exemplary process of isolating a target component from a fluid sample. 
         FIG. 3  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a sample container.  FIG. 3A  is a side view of the sample container of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 4  shows some of the features the sample container of  FIG. 3  and an embodiment of an adapter. 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the sample container of  FIG. 3 , an embodiment of an adapter, and an extraction assembly assembled together.  FIG. 5A  shows the sample container, the adapter, and the extraction assembly before assembly. 
         FIG. 6A  is a cross-sectional view of a sample container, an adapter, and an extraction assembly assembled together and the sample container in a closed state.  FIG. 6B  shows the sample container of  FIG. 6A  in an open state. 
         FIG. 7  shows an adapter coupled to the valve of one embodiment of a sample container. 
         FIG. 8  shows an adapter coupled to the valve of another embodiment of a sample container. 
     
    
    
     To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. It is contemplated that elements disclosed in one embodiment may be beneficially utilized on other embodiments without specific recitation. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention provide sample containers and methods for the safe and cost efficient collection and transportation of fluid samples. In certain embodiments described herein, the containers and methods provided herein circumvent current hazardous materials regulations by removing hazardous gases (e.g., H 2 S) from the fluid sample, thereby allowing the fluid sample to be shipped by traditional means (e.g., post, courier service, or air freight). Thus, embodiments of the containers and methods for the collection and transportation of fluid sample eliminate the need for HAZMAT training for the shipper as well as fees associated with the shipment of hazardous materials. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates one embodiment of an isolating container assembly  100  for isolating a target component from a fluid sample.  FIGS. 1A and 1B  show the features of the isolating container assembly  100  prior to assembly. The isolating container assembly  100  includes a body  110  having a first end  130  and a second end  140 . The body  110  defines an isolating chamber  120  for retaining the isolated target component. The fluid sample may contain a desired component such as hydrocarbons and a target component such as sulfur or carbon dioxide. The target component may be a hazardous or non-hazardous material. The fluid sample may enter the sampling chamber  120 , and the target component may be removed (e.g., stripped) from the fluid sample as the fluid sample passes through the sampling chamber  120 . In one embodiment, the target component may be at least partially converted to a different compound and/or phase containing the target component while within the sampling chamber  120 . For example, the target component may enter the sampling chamber  120  as a hazardous material and then converted to a non-hazardous or inert form while within the sampling chamber  120 . Exemplary fluid samples include hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) containing gases, carbon monoxide (CO) containing gases, carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) containing gases, and hydrocarbon containing gases. Exemplary target components include hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), and combinations thereof. In one example, the fluid sample may be a sulfur containing natural gas sample. 
     The isolating container assembly  100  may be a flow through container assembly. The body  110  may be constructed of any material that does not react or does not substantially react with the fluid sample. Exemplary materials for constructing the body  110  include metal, aluminum, steel, plastic, polymer based material, carbon fiber, and combinations thereof. The body  110  may comprise an opaque, transparent, or semi-transparent material. The body  110  may be any shape configured for passage of the fluid sample. Exemplary shapes of the body  110  include a cylindrical or tubular body shape. 
     A first valve assembly  150  may be coupled to the first end  130  of the body and a second valve assembly  160  may be coupled to the second end  140  of the body. The first valve assembly  150  and the second valve assembly  160  may be self sealing for retaining the fluid sample within the sampling chamber  120 . The first valve assembly  150  and the second valve assembly  160  may be pneumatic valve assemblies. In one embodiment, the valve assembly includes a valve stem into which a valve core is threaded, and the valve core may be a poppet valve assisted by a spring. Referring to  FIG. 1A , an exemplary self-sealing valve assembly  150 ,  160  is a Luer activated valve, which houses one end of a spring biased valve stem  151 ,  161  in a tapered inner bore of a Luer female fitting  152 ,  162 . The female fitting  152  is configured to receive a tapered male fitting to form a fluid tight connection. During connection with the female fitting, the male fitting will also depress the valve stem  151 , thereby opening the valve  150  for fluid communication. An exemplary Luer activated valve is sold by Qosina Corp. Other exemplary valve assemblies include Schrader valves, Presta valves, and Dunlop valves. The first valve assembly  150  and the second valve assembly  160  may be coupled to the body  110  using any suitable attachment mechanism known in the art. Exemplary attachment mechanisms include hose barbs, vacuum tight press fit, swaging, or threads. 
     A reactant material  170  is positioned within the sampling chamber  120  for removing the target component from the fluid sample. The reactant material  170  may include any material suitable for interacting with the target component and “trapping” the target component via chemical or other suitable mechanisms. The reactant material  170  may trap the target component by converting the target component to a different compound and/or phase containing the target component. For example, as the fluid sample passes through the sampling chamber  120 , the target component may be converted to an inert (and/or non-hazardous) form that remains in the sampling chamber  120 . Typically, the reactant material  170  is selected such that the reactant material  170  does not react with or affect the desired components of the fluid sample. For example, the reactant material  170  may be selected such that the reactant material  170  does not affect either the light hydrocarbon isotope values or the ratios of one light hydrocarbon to another hydrocarbon in a natural gas sample. Optionally, the reactant material  170  is selected such that the reactant material  170  does not contain the desired component for isotopic analysis. For example, if the fluid sample is natural gas, then the initial reactant material  170  would not contain natural gas or hydrocarbons. The reactant material may be in any form sufficient to allow the desired flow of fluid throughout the sampling chamber  120 . The reactant material  170  may be a solid material such as a powder or granular material. The reactant material  170  may have any suitable size. For example, the reactant material  170  may have a grain size between about 0.1 mm and about 1 mm across. In another example, the reactant material  170  may have a grain size between about 0.3 mm and about 0.5 mm across. In certain embodiments, the reactant material may be selected from zinc carbonate hydroxide (Zn 5 (CO 3 ) 2 (OH) 6 ), iron III oxide hydrate (2FeO(OH)), zinc acetate (2(C 2 H 3 O 2 ) 2 Zn), iron oxide (Fe 2 O3), and combinations thereof. The amount of reactant material  170  positioned within the sampling chamber  120  is sufficient to convert the target components in the fluid sample to a different compound and/or phase containing the target component, for example, converting the target component to a non-hazardous or inert form, without substantially restricting the flow of the fluid sample through the sampling chamber  120 . In one example, the amount of reactant material  170  positioned within the sampling chamber  120  may be between 10 mg and 200 mg. In another example, the amount of reactant material  170  positioned within the sampling chamber  120  may be between 10 mg and 80 mg. In yet another embodiment, the amount of reactant material  170  positioned within the sampling chamber  120  may be between 40 mg and 50 mg. 
     An optional indicator material  180  may be positioned within the sampling chamber  120 . The indicator material  180  may be used for indicating the presence or absence of the target component in the fluid sample. The indicator material  180  may be used to indicate that the aforementioned reactant material  170  has completely converted the target component to a non-hazardous or inert form. The indicator material  180  may undergo a visible change color to indicate the presence of the target component. As depicted in  FIG. 1 , if present, the indicator material  180  may be positioned downstream from the reactant material and therefore will not begin to change color until some of the target component flows past the reactant material without being converted. The indicator material  180  may comprise any material capable of indicating the presence of the target component. In certain embodiment, the indicator material  180  identifies the presence of H 2 S and indicates when some of the hydrogen sulfide failed to react with the reactant material. The indicator material  180  may be selected from lead acetate, copper sulfate, and combinations thereof. The indicator material  180  may be a solid material such as a powder or granular material. The indicator material  180  may have any suitable size. In one example, the indicator material  180  may have a grain size between about 1 micron and about 50 microns across. In another example, the indicator material  180  may have a grain size between about 1 micron and about 20 microns across. In yet another example, the indicator material  180  may have a grain size between about 5 microns and about 10 microns across. The indicator material  180  may be present in an amount sufficient to allow multiple reads while allowing for efficient flow of the fluid through the sampling chamber  120 . In one example, the amount of indicator material  180  positioned within the sampling chamber  120  may be between 50 grams and 400 grams. In another example, the amount of indicator material  180  positioned within the sampling chamber  120  may be between 100 grams and 200 grams. In yet another example, the amount of indicator material  180  positioned within the sampling chamber  120  may be between 130 grams and 150 grams. 
     Optionally, a filter material  191 ,  192  may be positioned within the sampling chamber  120 . The filter material  191 ,  192  may be used for holding the reactant material  170  and indicator material  180  in place without substantially interfering with the flow-though properties of the isolating container assembly  100 . The filter material  191 ,  192  may be disposed at each end of the reactant material  170 , and if used, the indicator material  180 . The ability to keep the reactant material  170  and indicator material  180  compact and in place provides for uniform flow of the fluid over the reactant material  170  and the indicator material  180 . The filter material  191 ,  192  also controls the flow of fluid by diffusing the fluid through the reactant evenly, to avoid channeling of the fluid flow through only a small portion of the reactant which could result in an inadequate conversion of the target component. The filter material  191 ,  192  may be a material that is inert relative to the fluids in the sampling chamber  120 . Exemplary filter materials  191 ,  192  include polyethylene (PE) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) based materials. The filter material  191 ,  192  may be an inert fibrous, porous, or sintered filtering material. The pores of the filter material  191 ,  192  are typically smaller than the grain size of the either the reactant material  170  or the indicator material  180 . 
     As depicted in  FIG. 1 , the filter materials  191 ,  192  are positioned on either side of the reactant material  170  to hold the reactant material  170  in place. The indicator material  180  may be disposed between the reactant material  170  and the filter material  192 . It should be understood that although two filters  191 ,  192  are depicted in  FIG. 1 , any suitable number of filters may be used in the isolating container assembly  100 . For example, additional filter materials may be used to isolate the reactant material  170  and/or the indicator material  180  into multiple portions. 
     In operation, a fluid sample enters the sampling chamber  120  via the first valve assembly  150 . The fluid sample may contain a hazardous or non-hazardous target component. The fluid sample flows through the filter material  191  and contacts the reactant material  170 , whereby the target component reacts with the reactant material  170 . The reaction at least partially converts the target component to a different compound and/or phase containing the target component. For example, the reaction with the reactant may convert at least some of the target component from a fluid phase to a solid phase. The unreacted components of the fluid sample flows through the reactant material  170  and contacts the indicator material  180  to indicate the presence or absence of the target component in the fluid sample. In one example, when substantially all of the reactant material  170  is saturated/reacted (i.e., the reactant material has been used up via reaction with the target component) any additional target component continues to flow through the used up reactant material  170  toward the downstream indicator material  180 . The additional target component contacts the indicator material  180  to generate a visible change in color, thus indicating the fluid sample leaving the reactant material  170  contains the target component and/or substantially all of the reactant material has been used up. 
     In one embodiment, a fluid sample containing hazardous material enters the sampling chamber  120  via the first valve assembly  150 . The fluid sample flows through the filter material  191  and contacts the reactant material  170 , whereby the hazardous material reacts with the reactant material  170 . The reaction at least partially converts the hazardous material to a non-hazardous compound and/or different phase. For example, the reaction with the reactant material  170  may convert at least some of the hazardous material from fluid phase to a non-hazardous solid phase. The “stripped” fluid sample exits the reactant material  170  and contacts the indicator material  180  to indicate the absence of the hazardous material. Preferably, the sampling chamber  120  contains sufficient reactant material  170  to react with the target component in the fluid sample. The stripped fluid sample then flows through the filter material  192  and exits the isolating container assembly  100  via the second valve assembly  160 . A sample container may be attached to second valve assembly  160  to collect the stripped fluid sample. It must be noted the stripped fluid sample may contain some amount of the target component (e.g., hazardous material) so long as the amount of the target component is within the acceptable ranges for collection, transport, or analysis. 
       FIGS. 2-1 to 2-11  illustrate an exemplary process of isolating a target component from a fluid sample. In this exemplary process, hydrogen sulfide may be removed from a natural gas sample. In  FIG. 2-1 , the natural gas sample may be extracted from a source container  205  using a syringe  230 . The source container  205  may include a septum port  206  for receiving the needle  233  attached to the syringe  230 . The natural gas sample may be stored in the source container  205  at low or zero pressure. The syringe  230  may include a shut off valve  231  such as a quarter turn ball valve connected to a Luer male fitting  232 . The needle  233  is attached to the male fitting  232 . 
     In  FIG. 2-2 , the needle  233  is inserted into the source container  205  to extract a first natural gas sample. The first natural gas sample may be used to purge air or other fluids from the isolating container  200 . The shut off valve  231  is opened and the plunger of the syringe  230  is pulled to extract the first natural gas sample. The first natural gas sample may be extracted in an amount sufficient to purge the isolating container  200 , such as between 5 ml and 100 ml, between 5 ml and 60 ml, between 5 ml and 20 ml, or any sufficient amount to purge the isolating container  200 . 
     In  FIG. 2-3 , after extraction, the shut off valve  231  is closed and the needle  233  is removed from the syringe  230 . 
     In  FIG. 2-4 , the syringe  230  is connected to the first self-sealing valve  250  at one end of the isolating container  200  by inserting the male fitting  232  into the female fitting of the first valve  250 . During the connection, the male fitting  232  also depresses the stem of the first valve  250 , thereby opening the first valve  250  for fluid communication. Also, a connector  235  is connected to the second self-sealing valve  260  at the other end of the isolating container  200 . In this embodiment, the connector  235  includes a Luer male fitting  236 ,  237  at each end and a bore extending through the body of the connector  235 . The male fitting  236  at one end is inserted into the female fitting of the second valve  260 . The male fitting  236  depresses the stem of the second valve  260  thereby opening the second valve  260  for fluid communication. 
     In  FIG. 2-5 , the shut off valve  231  is opened, and the syringe  230  is compressed to urge the first natural gas sample through the first valve  250  and the isolating container  230  to purge the isolating chamber. As the first natural gas sample passes through the reactant material  270  such as iron oxide hydrate, the hydrogen sulfide in the first natural gas sample reacts with the iron oxide hydrate and converts to a solid phase sulfur compound. The converted sulfur compound remains in the isolating chamber while the stripped natural gas sample flows through the reactant material  270  unaffected or substantially unaffected. For example, no more than 5% of the hydrocarbons in the natural gas sample are affected isotopically by the reactant material. In another example, less than 2% of the hydrocarbons are affected isotopically by the reactant material. In yet another embodiment, less than 1% of the hydrocarbons are affected isotopically by the reactant material. The stripped first natural gas sample exits the isolating container  200  via the second valve  260  and the bore of the connector  235 . 
     In  FIG. 2-6 , the connector  235  and the syringe  230  are disconnected from the isolating container  200 , and the shut off valve  231  is closed. It must be noted that the purging process for the isolating container  200  described in  FIGS. 2-1 to 2-6  is optional and is not required in all embodiments. 
     In  FIG. 2-7 , the needle  233  is re-attached to the syringe  230 , and the needle  231  is inserted into the source container  205 . Then the shut off valve  231  is opened, and the syringe  230  extracts a second natural gas sample from the source container  205 . The syringe  230  may be used to extract the desired amount of natural gas sample for analysis. After extraction, the shut off valve  231  is closed. 
     In  FIG. 2-8 , the needle  233  removed, and the syringe  230  is connected to the first valve  250  of the isolating container  200  by connecting the male fitting  232  to the female fitting of the first valve  250 . Also, the male fitting  236  of the connector  235  is inserted into the female fitting of the second valve  260 . The male fittings  232 ,  236  depress the respective stems and open the first valve  250  and the second valve  260  for fluid communication. 
     In  FIG. 2-9 , a sample container  240  equipped with a valve  242 , such as a Luer activated valve, is attached to the connector  235 . As shown, the male fitting  237  of the connector  235  is inserted into the female fitting of the valve  242 . The male fitting  237  opens the valve  242  for fluid communication. Any sample container  240  suitable for holding the natural gas sample may be used. In one example, the sample container  240  is made of a material that does not change or substantially change the isotopic percentage of the hydrocarbons or the hydrocarbon ratios in the collected natural gas sample. As shown in this embodiment, the sample container  240  includes two sheets of material attached at the edges to form an internal pocket for collecting the natural gas sample. The valve  242  is attached to one of the sheets. The pocket will expand to accommodate the influx of natural gas sample. 
     In  FIG. 2-10 , the shut off valve  232  is opened, and the syringe  230  is compressed to urge the second natural gas sample through the first valve  250  and the isolating container  200 . As the second natural gas sample passes through the reactant material  270 , the hydrogen sulfide in the natural gas sample reacts with the iron oxide hydrate and converts to a solid phase compound. The converted sulfur compound remains in the isolating chamber while the stripped natural gas sample flows through the reactant material unaffected or substantially unaffected. For example, no more than 5% of the hydrocarbons in the natural gas are affected isotopically by the reactant material. In another example, less than 2% of the hydrocarbons are affected isotopically by the reactant material. In yet another embodiment, less than 1% of the hydrocarbons are affected isotopically by the reactant material. In yet another embodiment, the effect of the reactant on the hydrocarbon ratios of the natural gas sample is less than 10%, preferably, less than 5%. The stripped second natural gas sample exits the isolating container  200  via the second valve  260  and is collected in the sample container  240 . 
     In  FIG. 2-11 , the sample container  240  and the syringe  230  are disconnected from the isolating container  200 . Because the sulfur has been removed from the natural gas sample using the isolating container  200 , the resulting sample collected in the sample container  240  can be shipped as a non-hazardous material, i.e., without being labeled as “TOXIC.” After use, the isolating container  200  may be discarded without being treated as hazardous waste. If the size of the syringe  230  is inadequate to collect the desired sample amount in one extraction, multiple extractions may be performed to accumulate the desired amount of natural gas sample in the sample container  240  for analysis. For example, if the desired collected amount is 180 ml, then the process may be repeated three times using a syringe to supply three 60 ml samples into the sample container  240 . 
     It must be noted that although the isolating container  200  is described as receiving the fluid sample from a syringe, the isolating container  200  may also be attached to any fluid source that requires the removal of a target component. For example, the isolating container  200  may be attached directly to the fluid source so that the fluid sample may be collected continuously. The fluid source may be a higher pressure source or a lower pressure. In one embodiment, a bypass line in fluid communication with a natural gas line can be used to extract a natural gas sample from the natural gas line for analysis. Before collecting the natural gas sample, the isolating container  200  may be connected to the flow path between bypass line and a sample container. In this respect, the sulfur or other targeted component may be removed prior to being collected in the sample container. 
       FIG. 3  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a sample container  300 . The sample container  300  may be used as the sample container  240  shown in  FIG. 2-10 .  FIG. 3A  is a side view of the sample container  300  of  FIG. 3 . The sample container  300  includes a container body  310  and a flat end portion  312  and a valve assembly  320  disposed at the flat end portion  312 . In one embodiment, the container body  310  includes an interior pocket and the flat end portion  312  is attached to the container body  310  such that the valve  320  fluidly communicates with the interior pocket of the container body  310 . In another embodiment, the container body  310  is formed by attaching the peripheral edges of two sheets of material and the flat end portion  312  is attached to one end of the two sheets of material such that the valve  320  fluidly communicates with the interior pocket of the container body  310 . As shown in  FIGS. 3 and 3A , the flat end portion  312  and the container body  310  may form a T-shaped configuration. In another embodiment, the container body  310  may be in the shape of a rectangle, oval, circle, or any suitable shape for receiving a fluid sample. The container body  310  may initially have a flat configuration and later expands to increase the volume of the interior pocket to receive the fluid sample. 
     In one embodiment, the walls of the sample container  300  may include one or more layers of material. The container material may be selected from any suitable polymeric material such as polyethylene terephthalate (“PET”), a perfluoroplastic material such as PFA, FEP, or PTFE, a low density polyethylene (“LDPE”) such as a white LDPE, an ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (“EVOH”), a polyamide film such as biaxially oriented nylon, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the container material may include multi-layers of the same or different polymeric materials. For example, the container material may be made of PET, LDPE, and EVOH multi-layer material. In another embodiment, the container material may include one or more layers of metal foil or metalized film. The container material may include three, four, five, six, or more layers of materials. For example, the container material may be made of a PET layer, a metal foil layer, and an EVOH layer. In yet another embodiment, the EVOH layer is used as the innermost layer of the multi-layer container material such that the EVOH layer forms the interior surface of the pocket. The EVOH layer may have a thickness between 0.0005 inches to 0.02 inches; preferably, between 0.001 inches to 0.01 inches; more preferably, between 0.001 inches to 0.005 inches. In yet another embodiment, the PET is used as the outermost layer. In a further embodiment, at least one of the LDPE layer, foil layer, biaxially oriented nylon layer, and PTFE layer may serve as interior layers of the container material. For example, the interior layers may be a LDPE layer; a PTFE layer; a LDPE and biaxially oriented nylon bi-layer; a foil and biaxially oriented nylon bi-layer; a LDPE, foil, and biaxially oriented nylon multi-layer; a LDPE, foil, and LDPE multi-layer; a LDPE, foil, and PTFE multi-layer; and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the container material may include a PET layer, a foil layer, and an EVOH layer. In yet another embodiment, the container material may include a metalized PET layer and an EVOH layer. 
     The valve assembly  320  of the sample container  300  may a self-sealing valve assembly such as the valve assemblies  150 ,  160  described above. In one embodiment, the valve assembly  320  is a Luer activated valve. The valve assembly may be attached to the sample container  300  in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 4 , the valve assembly  320  may be attached to a valve body  326 , which in turn, is attached to the sample container  300 . Referring now to  FIG. 6A , the valve body  326  includes a seat  333  for receiving the valve assembly  320 , and a sealing member  327  such as an o-ring may be disposed between the valve body  326  and the valve assembly  320 . The valve body  326  may be inserted through the flat end portion  312  of the sample container  300 , and a sealing member  328  such as an o-ring may be disposed between the flat end portion  312  and the base of the valve body  326 . A locking member  329  such as a speed nut may be used to retain the valve body  326  to the sample container  300 . 
     In use, the sample container  300  may be used to collect the fluid sample leaving the isolating container  200 . Referring back to  FIG. 2-11 , the valve assembly  320  of the T-shaped sample container  300  may be connected to the male fitting  237  of the connector  235 . Upon connection, the male fitting  237  will depress the stem in the valve assembly  320 , thereby opening the valve assembly  320  to receive the stripped natural gas sample leaving the isolating container  200 . After collecting the natural gas sample, male fitting  237  of the connector  235  is disconnected from the valve assembly  320 . The self-sealing nature of the valve assembly  320  will close the valve assembly  320  from fluid communication. 
     In another embodiment, the fluid sample in the sample container  300  may be removed for analysis. For example, the sample container  300  may be coupled to an extraction assembly to remove the fluid sample for analysis. An exemplary extraction assembly is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0282814, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, including the description related to the extraction assembly  14 . In one embodiment, an adapter  400  may be used to couple the extraction assembly  500  to the valve assembly  320  of the sample container  300 , as shown in  FIGS. 5 and 5A .  FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the sample container  300 , the adapter  400 , and the extraction assembly  500  assembled together.  FIG. 5A  shows the sample container  300 , the adapter  400 , and the extraction assembly  500  before assembly. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4 and 6A , the adapter  400  includes a connect body  405  and a pin  410  disposed in a bore  415  of the connect body  405 . The pin  410  optionally includes a larger diameter head  411  disposed at an upper end of the pin  410 . The bore  415  may include a larger diameter section to accommodate the head  411  of the pin  410 . The bottom of the larger diameter section forms a shoulder  423  in the bore  415 . The adapter  400  may connect to the extraction assembly  500  using any suitable connection mechanism. For example, threads  421  may be provided on the outer surface of the upper portion of the connect body  405  for connection with the extraction assembly  500 . The lower portion of the adapter  400  includes a Luer male fitting  420  for connection with the female fitting of the valve assembly  320  of the sample container  300 .  FIG. 6A  shows the valve assembly  320  of the sample container  300  in the closed position and the adapter  400  connected to the valve assembly  320 . As shown in  FIG. 6A , the pin  410  has a sufficient length such that the bottom of the pin  410  rests on the stem of the valve assembly  320 , and a gap exists between the head  411  of the pin  410  and the shoulder  423  in the bore  415 . In additional, it can be seen that the end of the male fitting  320  does not depress the stem of the valve  320 .  FIG. 7  shows an adapter  400  coupled to the valve  320  of the sample container  300 .  FIG. 8  shows an adapter  400  coupled to the valve  820  of another embodiment of a sample container  800 . 
       FIG. 6A  also illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an extraction assembly  500 . The extraction assembly  500  includes a coupler  515  having a coupler body  515 A. The coupler body  515 A has a central longitudinal bore  515 B which allows for fluid flow. The coupler  515  also has an externally threaded first body end  516  and an internally threaded second body end  517 . The central longitudinal bore  515 B is divided into segments of varying diameters, thereby creating a first shoulder  521 , a second shoulder  523 , and a third shoulder  525 . A first sealing member  529  such as a rubber o-ring rests against the second shoulder  523 . The first sealing member  529  creates a seal when the internally threaded second body end  517  is connected to the external threads  421  of the adapter  400 . An annular bushing  526  is disposed on the third shoulder  525 , and a second sealing member  528  such as an o-ring is disposed on the annular bushing  526 . An internally threaded bushing retaining cap  527  having a central bore, is disposed over the externally threaded first body end  516 . A stem  531  is axially movable and partially disposed within the central bore of bushing retaining cap  527 , the annular bushing  526 , and the bore  5156  of the coupler body  515 A. The second sealing member  528  prevents the passage of fluid around the stem  531 . Stem  531  includes a central bore  531 A and a head portion  539  having a larger diameter than the stem  531  and thereby is able to rest on the first shoulder  521  and to secure the stem  531  within the coupler body  515 A. The head portion  539  includes a bore that communicates with the central bore  531 A of the stem  531 . A retaining member  536  is attached to the upper end of the stem  531 . The retaining member  536  may include a septum seat and a septum cap. A septum  534 , which may be composed of a penetrable material such as rubber, is disposed on the septum seat. The septum  534  may be accessed through an aperture  536 A in the retaining member  536 . An optional spring may be disposed between the retaining member  536  and the bushing retaining cap  527 . 
     Prior to extracting the fluid sample from the sample container  300 , the extraction assembly  500  is threadedly attached to the adapter  400 , and the Luer male fitting  420  of the adapter  400  is inserted into the female fitting of the valve assembly  320  of the sample container, as shown in  FIG. 6A . In  FIG. 6A , the valve assembly  320  is in the closed position. To extract the fluid sample, a needle  551 , such as a hypodermic needle, is inserted through the aperture  536 A of the retaining member  536 . Depressing the retaining member  536  causes the stem  531  to push the pin  410  down against the stem of the valve assembly  320 . As a result, as shown in  FIG. 6B , the valve assembly  320  is opened for fluid communication with the pocket of the sample container  300 , thereby allowing the sample fluid to be extracted from the sample container  300 . The sample fluid may flow from the sample container  300 , through the valve  320 , through the bore  415  of the adapter  400 , through the bore  515 B, and into the needle  551 . After withdrawal, pressure on the retaining member  536  is relieved, thereby closing the valve assembly  320 . 
     The embodiments described herein provide several advantages over prior methods of collecting hazardous fluid samples. In certain embodiments, a fluid sample may be flowed through an isolating container to remove a target component such as a hazardous material from the fluid sample before being collected in a sample container. After collection in the sample container, the scrubbed fluid sample may be transported without additional hazardous material restraints. 
     In certain embodiments, the sample container may include a T-shaped configuration, wherein the valve assembly is disposed in a flat end portion of the sample container. Without wising to be bound by theory, it is believed that positioning the valve assembly at the flat end portion instead of a wall of the sample container reduces the stress on the wall of the sample container and also facilitates attachment to other devices such as the extraction assembly. In one embodiment, the sample container may be made from a material that does not substantially affect its contents. For example, the sample container material may be selected to minimize the absorptive effect on its contents. 
     In one embodiment, an isolating container for removing a component from a fluid sample includes a body defining a sampling chamber having a first end and a second end; a first valve assembly coupled to the first end; a reactant material positioned within the sampling chamber for reacting with the component; and a second valve assembly coupled to the second end, wherein the fluid sample enters the sampling chamber through the first valve assembly and exits through the second valve assembly. 
     In another embodiment, a method for collecting a fluid sample includes flowing the fluid sample into an isolating container, wherein the isolating container includes a reactant material; removing a component from the fluid sample by reacting the component with the reactant material; and collecting the fluid sample leaving the isolating container into a sample container. 
     In another embodiment, a sample container for collecting a fluid sample includes a container body; a flat end portion; and a valve assembly disposed at the flat end portion for accessing the interior of the container body. 
     In another embodiment, an adapter for coupling a Luer activated valve to an activating device includes a connect body having a bore, a first end for coupling with the Luer activated valve, and a second end for coupling with the activating device; and a pin movably disposed in the bore of the connect body, wherein the pin is movable by the activating device to activate the Luer activated valve. 
     In another embodiment, a fluid sample collection assembly includes a sample container coupled to an isolating container for selective fluid communication with a second valve assembly of the isolating container. The isolating container includes a body defining a sampling chamber having a first end and a second end; a first valve assembly coupled to the first end; a reactant material positioned within the sampling chamber for reacting with the component; and a second valve assembly coupled to the second end, wherein the fluid sample enters the sampling chamber through the first valve assembly and exits through the second valve assembly. The sample container includes a container body; a flat end portion; and a valve assembly disposed at the flat end portion for accessing the interior of the container body. 
     In another embodiment, a fluid sample extraction assembly includes a sample container coupled to an extraction apparatus, wherein the extraction apparatus is configured to open the sample container. The sample container includes a container body; a flat end portion; and a valve assembly disposed at the flat end portion for accessing the interior of the container body. The extraction apparatus includes a coupler body having a bore therethrough; and a stem movable disposed in the bore, wherein the stem is configured to open the valve assembly for extracting a fluid sample from the sample container. In one embodiment, the extraction assembly may include an adapter for coupling the extraction assembly to the sample container. The adapter includes a connect body having a bore, a first end for coupling with the valve assembly using a Luer fitting; and a pin movably disposed in the bore of the connect body, wherein the pin is movable by the extraction apparatus to activate the valve assembly. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, at least one of the first valve assembly and the second valve assembly is a self-closing valve assembly. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, at least one of the first valve assembly and the second valve assembly comprises a Luer activated valve. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the reactant material converts the component to an inert form. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the reactant material converts the component to a non-hazardous form. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the reactant material is selected from the group consisting of: zinc carbonate hydroxide (Zn 5 (CO 3 ) 2 (OH) 6 ), iron III oxide hydrate (2FeO(OH)), zinc acetate (2(C 2 H 3 O 2 ) 2 Zn), iron oxide (Fe 2 O3), and combinations thereof. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, a filtering material positioned within the sampling chamber. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the filtering material is selected from the group consisting of: polyethylene (PE) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) based materials. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the component removed is hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) and the reactant material converts hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) to an inert form. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the reactant material does not substantially affect the isotopes in the fluid sample. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the method includes purging the isolating container prior to collecting the fluid sample in the sample container. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the fluid sample is natural gas and the component is hydrogen sulfide. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the container body and the flat end portion forms a T-shaped configuration. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the valve assembly is a self-sealing valve assembly. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the valve assembly comprises a Luer activated valve. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the sample container comprises one or more layers of elastomeric material. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, one or more layers of the sample container is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate (“PET”), a perfluoroplastic material, a low density polyethylene (“LDPE”), an ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (“EVOH”), a polyamide film such as biaxially oriented nylon, and combinations thereof. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the sample container comprises multiple layers of the same or different polymeric materials. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the sample container further comprises at least one of a metal foil layer and a metalized film. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the sample container includes an EVOH layer. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the sample container includes a PET layer. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the pin includes a head portion having a larger diameter, wherein the head portion is disposed in a larger diameter segment of the bore. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the adapter includes threads for coupling with the activating device. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the activating device comprises an extraction assembly. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the fluid sample collection assembly includes a connector having a Luer male fitting at each end, wherein the connector is coupled to the second valve assembly and the valve assembly of the sample container. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the extraction assembly includes an adapter for coupling the extraction assembly to the sample container. 
     In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the adapter includes a connect body having a bore, a first end for coupling with the valve assembly using a Luer fitting; and a pin movably disposed in the bore of the connect body, wherein the pin is movable by the extraction apparatus to activate the valve assembly. 
     While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.