Automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity enhanced Raman spectroscopy

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of precision optical detection, in particular to an automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity enhanced Raman spectroscopy, the device comprises an automatic sample introduction unit, a peristaltic pump, an ultrasonic generator and a Raman spectrum detection pool, the automatic sample introduction unit is used for producing a detection sample, the automatic sample introduction unit is connected with the peristaltic pump through a pipeline, and the peristaltic pump is connected with the ultrasonic generator through a pipeline. The peristaltic pump is connected with the Raman spectrum detection pool through a pipeline, the ultrasonic generator is arranged at the bottom of the Raman spectrum detection pool, and the ultrasonic generator is used for removing bubbles of a sample in the Raman spectrum detection pool. An ultrasonic generator is integrated at the bottom of a detection pool of the Raman spectrum detection automatic sampling device, and the ultrasonic generator destroys bubble surface tension by using shock waves generated by a cavitation effect, so that bubbles are gathered and collapsed. The technology realizes non-contact defoaming through physical vibration, does not need chemical additives, effectively maintains the integrity of a sample, can be linked with equipment such as a peristaltic pump and an air pump, meets the automation requirement of a continuous flow system, and finally remarkably improves the detection signal-to-noise ratio, repeatability and data accuracy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of precision optical detection, and in particular to an automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. Background Technology

[0002] In Raman spectroscopy, the formation of bubbles in a liquid medium can cause multiple interferences to the detection system. Because bubbles and liquid have different refractive indices, the scattering effect caused by bubbles can lead to interference with the characteristic spectrum of the target particle by uncorrelated light signals, reducing the signal-to-noise ratio of the photodetector. If the bubbles are dense or large, they may directly block the light path, resulting in a decrease in transmitted light intensity. Simultaneously, the movement and morphological changes of bubbles can cause instability in the laser scattering signal, adversely affecting the repeatability and accuracy of the measurement, and significantly increasing the complexity of data processing. Currently, there is a lack of efficient bubble removal devices in Raman spectroscopy. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention provides an automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, which solves the problem of bubble generation in liquid media in existing Raman spectroscopy detection technology.

[0004] The technical solution of the present invention is as follows:

[0005] This invention proposes an automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. The device includes an automatic sample introduction unit, a peristaltic pump, an ultrasonic generator, and a Raman spectroscopy detection cell. The automatic sample introduction unit is used to produce the test sample. The automatic sample introduction unit is connected to the peristaltic pump through a pipe. The peristaltic pump is connected to the Raman spectroscopy detection cell through a pipe. The ultrasonic generator is located at the bottom of the Raman spectroscopy detection cell and is used to remove bubbles from the sample in the Raman spectroscopy detection cell.

[0006] In some embodiments, the Raman spectroscopy detection cell includes an injection pipe, a detection cell body, a lens, and a rubber ring. The lens is fixed inside the detection cell body by the rubber ring. An injection pipe is provided at the top of the detection cell body and is connected to a peristaltic pump.

[0007] In some embodiments, the automatic sample feeding unit includes a sample vial and a first control device. The first control device is connected to the sample vial via a pipe and to a peristaltic pump via a pipe. The first control device feeds a sample, desalinated water, or standard solution into the Raman spectroscopy detection cell according to user instructions.

[0008] In some embodiments, the automatic sample injection unit is further provided with a desalination water bottle and a standard solution bottle, which are respectively connected to the first control device through pipelines. The desalination water bottle contains desalination water, which is used to clean the Raman spectroscopy detection cell. The standard solution bottle contains standard solution, which is used to calibrate the instrument in the Raman spectroscopy detection cell.

[0009] In some embodiments, the bottom of the Raman spectroscopy detection cell is provided with a discharge pipe for discharging the detection sample.

[0010] In some embodiments, the device further includes an air pump and a second control device. The second control device is disposed on the pipeline between the peristaltic pump and the Raman spectroscopy detection cell. The second control device is connected to the air pump through the pipeline and controls the air pump to blow air into the Raman spectroscopy detection cell for drying the Raman spectroscopy detection cell.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first control device is a four-way drain valve, the four inlets of which are respectively connected to a standard solution bottle, a sample bottle, a deionized water bottle, and a peristaltic pump; the second control device is a two-position three-way valve, the peristaltic pump and the air pump are connected to the two inlets of the two-position three-way valve through pipelines.

[0012] The implementation of this invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0013] This invention proposes an automated defoaming and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. The device integrates an ultrasonic generator at the bottom of the detection cell. The ultrasonic generator utilizes the cavitation effect to generate shock waves that disrupt the surface tension of bubbles, causing them to aggregate and collapse. This technology achieves non-contact defoaming through physical vibration, eliminating the need for chemical additives, effectively maintaining sample integrity, and can be integrated with peristaltic pumps, air pumps, and other equipment to meet the automation requirements of continuous flow systems. Ultimately, it significantly improves the signal-to-noise ratio, repeatability, and data accuracy, making it particularly suitable for precision optical detection scenarios. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] Figure 2 This is a plan view of the Raman spectroscopy detection cell of an automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy proposed in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0016] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a Raman spectroscopy detection cell for an automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, as proposed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1. Sample bottle; 2. Deionized water bottle; 3. Standard solution bottle; 4. First control device; 5. Peristaltic pump; 6. Air pump; 7. Second control device; 8. Ultrasonic generator; 9. Raman spectroscopy detection cell; 91. Detection cell body; 92. Lens; 93. Rubber ring; 94. Sample inlet pipe; 95. Discharge pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The technical solution of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0019] To eliminate bubbles while avoiding chemical contamination of the original sample and affecting optical detection results, physical defoaming techniques are preferable. Considering the need for continuous flow and automation in the automated Raman spectroscopy sample introduction device, this invention chooses ultrasonic technology for bubble removal. Ultrasonic defoaming eliminates the need for chemical reagents, effectively preserving the integrity of the original sample; moreover, it offers high controllability, adapting to different liquids and bubble types by adjusting parameters such as frequency and amplitude, thus improving the system's automation level. We integrated an ultrasonic generator 8 into the bottom of the Raman detection cell of the automated Raman spectroscopy sample introduction device, combined with flow control, to form a highly efficient bubble removal solution.

[0020] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, this invention proposes an automated bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. The device includes an automated sample introduction unit, a peristaltic pump 5, an ultrasonic generator 8, a Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9, a second control device 7, and an air pump 6. The automated sample introduction unit is used to produce the test sample. The automated sample introduction unit is connected to the peristaltic pump 5 via a pipe. The peristaltic pump 5 is connected to the second control device 7 via a pipe. The second control device 7 is connected to the sample introduction pipe 94 of the Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9 and the air pump 6 via separate pipes. The peristaltic pump 5 transports the test sample produced by the automated sample introduction unit to the Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9 through the pipes. During this transport process, bubbles are generated in the Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9 in the test sample. The ultrasonic generator 8 is located at the bottom of the Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9 and is used to remove the bubbles in the sample within the Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9. The ultrasonic generator 8 consists of ultrasonic vibration components (such as a transducer) and a control system. It generates high-frequency vibration signals through electronic components and is physically integrated with the detection cell to ensure direct transfer of vibration energy to the liquid medium. When the sample flows into the detection cell, the ultrasonic generator 8 immediately activates, utilizing the cavitation effect to generate shock waves that disrupt the surface tension of bubbles, causing them to aggregate and collapse. Simultaneously, the ultrasonic generator 8 supports adjustment of parameters such as frequency and amplitude to adapt to different liquid viscosities, bubble sizes, and flow rate requirements.

[0021] The Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9 includes an inlet pipe 94, an outlet pipe 95, a detection cell body 91, a lens 92, and a rubber ring 93. The lens 92 is fixed inside the detection cell body 91 by the rubber ring 93. The top of the detection cell body 91 is provided with an inlet pipe 94, which is connected to a peristaltic pump 5. The bottom of the detection cell body 91 is provided with an outlet pipe 95, which is used to discharge the test sample.

[0022] The automatic sample introduction unit includes a sample vial 1, a desalinated water bottle 2, a standard solution bottle 3, and a first control device 4. The first control device 4 is a four-way valve. The first control device 4 is connected to the sample vial 1, the desalinated water bottle 2, and the standard solution bottle 3 via pipes. The first control device 4 is also connected to a peristaltic pump 5 via pipes. The first control device 4 introduces samples, desalinated water, or standard solutions into the Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9 according to user instructions. The desalinated water bottle 2 contains desalinated water, which is used to clean the Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9. The standard solution bottle 3 contains standard solutions, which are used for data calibration of Raman spectroscopy detection.

[0023] The second control device 7 is installed on the pipeline between the peristaltic pump 5 and the Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9. The second control device 7 is connected to the air pump 6 via the pipeline, and controls the air pump 6 to blow air into the Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9 for drying. The second control device 7 is a two-position three-way valve, and the peristaltic pump 5 and the air pump 6 are connected to the two inlets of the two-position three-way valve via pipelines. The bottom of the Raman spectroscopy detection cell 9 is connected to the ultrasonic generator 8.

[0024] The operator injects the sample to be tested into a dedicated sample vial 1 and connects it to the system's sampling pipeline. The operator then initiates the automation program via the control terminal, issuing a sample injection command. At this point, the automatic sample injection device is activated, and the fluid transport system, constructed from the peristaltic pump 5, begins operation, continuously transporting the sample from sample vial 1 along the pipeline to the sample detection cell of the Raman spectrometer. During the sample's flow into the detection cell, microbubbles form within the cell due to liquid impact and surface tension. To address this, the ultrasonic generator 8 integrated at the bottom of the detection cell immediately activates, using the shock waves generated by cavitation to rapidly collapse the suspended bubbles.

[0025] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementation methods of the present invention, and their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these all fall within the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, characterized in that, The device includes an automatic sample injection unit, a peristaltic pump (5), an ultrasonic generator (8), and a Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9). The automatic sample injection unit is used to produce test samples. The automatic sample injection unit is connected to the peristaltic pump (5) through a pipe. The peristaltic pump (5) is connected to the Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9) through a pipe. The ultrasonic generator (8) is located at the bottom of the Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9) and is used to remove air bubbles from the sample in the Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9).

2. The automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy according to claim 1, characterized in that, The Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9) includes an injection pipe (94), a detection cell body (91), a lens (92), and a rubber ring (93). The lens (92) is fixed inside the detection cell body (91) by the rubber ring (93). The top of the detection cell body (91) is provided with an injection pipe (94), and the injection pipe (94) is connected to a peristaltic pump (5).

3. The automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy according to claim 2, characterized in that, The automatic sample feeding unit includes a sample vial (1) and a first control device (4). The first control device (4) is connected to the sample vial (1) via a pipe and to the peristaltic pump (5) via a pipe. The first control device (4) feeds the sample, desalinated water or standard solution into the Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9) according to the user's instructions.

4. The automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy according to claim 3, characterized in that, The automatic sample injection unit is also equipped with a desalination bottle (2) and a standard solution bottle (3), which are respectively connected to the first control device (4) through pipelines. The desalination bottle (2) contains desalination water, which is used to clean the Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9). The standard solution bottle (3) contains standard solution, which is used to calibrate the instrument of the Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9).

5. The automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy according to claim 2, characterized in that, The Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9) has a discharge pipe (95) at the bottom of the detection cell body (91), which is used to discharge the detection sample.

6. The automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy according to claim 3, characterized in that, The device is also equipped with an air pump (6) and a second control device (7). The second control device (7) is located on the pipeline between the peristaltic pump (5) and the Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9). The second control device (7) is connected to the air pump (6) through the pipeline. The second control device (7) controls the air pump (6) to blow air into the Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9) for drying the Raman spectroscopy detection cell (9).

7. The automatic bubble removal and sample introduction device for cavity-enhanced Raman spectroscopy according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first control device (4) is a four-way valve, and the four inlets of the four-way valve are respectively connected to the standard solution bottle (3), the sample bottle (1), the deionized water bottle (2) and the peristaltic pump (5); the second control device (7) is a two-position three-way valve, and the peristaltic pump (5) and the air pump (6) are connected to the two inlets of the two-position three-way valve through pipelines.

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