Integrated transfer module with integrated conductivity measurement

Abstract

A device for analyzing total organic carbon (TOC) in a fluid at a desired temperature may include one or more transfer modules, each including a first and a second transfer plate. A first fluid channel is formed in the first transfer plate, and a second fluid channel is formed in the second transfer plate. A CO2-permeable membrane is disposed between the first and second fluid channels, and a temperature measurement device measures the temperature of the fluid in the first and / or second fluid channels. A temperature control system is configured to heat or cool the transfer plate. Heating or cooling the transfer plate heats or cools the fluid in the first and / or second fluid channels to a desired temperature. One or more conductivity sensors are configured to measure the conductivity of the fluid in the first and / or second fluid channels.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 110,466, filed November 6, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to systems, devices, and methods for estimating the conductivity of a fluid at a desired temperature. Total organic carbon (TOC) analyzers are used, among other purposes, for cleaning verification of systems containing organic carbon. Descriptions of TOC analyzers can be found in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,132,094 and 5,902,751, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0003] In some cases, conventional TOC analyzers can be used to determine the conductivity of aqueous solutions. The conductivity of aqueous solutions has a temperature dependence that varies depending on the concentration and composition of the ions present. For standardization purposes, conductivity values ​​are often routinely reported at 25°C, but are rarely measured at that exact temperature. This can require the use of temperature compensation algorithms, which require knowledge of the solution's temperature and composition to calculate the expected conductivity value at 25°C. In many industrial applications, the composition of the solution is unknown, and assumptions about the chemical composition are required to approximate the calculation of the expected value to the 25°C standard. Furthermore, some conductivity meters require the use of multiple conductivity cells to measure separate streams, resulting in bulky devices and allowing for different conductivity values ​​for the same solution to be obtained from each cell.

[0004] Therefore, a need exists for a device and system that does not rely on temperature compensation calculations, but instead controls the solution temperature to a specified reference temperature and obtains direct conductivity measurements. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One implementation of the present disclosure is a device for measuring the conductivity of a fluid at a desired temperature, the device including one or more transfer modules, each transfer module including: a first transfer plate having a first side and a second side, with a first fluid channel formed on the first side of the first transfer plate; a second transfer plate having a first side and a second side, with a second fluid channel formed on the first side of the second transfer plate, the first side of the first transfer plate facing the first side of the second transfer plate; and a gas-permeable membrane disposed between the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate, wherein a portion of the first fluid channel and a portion of the second fluid channel are separated by the gas-permeable membrane. The device also includes one or more temperature measurement devices configured to measure the temperature of the fluid in the first fluid channel and / or the temperature of the fluid in the second fluid channel; a temperature control system configured to heat or cool at least one or both of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate of each of the one or more transfer modules, wherein heating or cooling at least one or both of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate heats or cools the fluid in the first fluid channel and / or the fluid in the second fluid channel to a desired temperature; and one or more conductivity sensors configured to measure the conductivity of the fluid in a portion of the first fluid channel separated from the second fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane at the desired temperature and / or the conductivity of the fluid in a portion of the second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane at the desired temperature.

[0006] In some embodiments, the device includes multiple transfer modules.

[0007] In some embodiments, for each transfer module, the second side of the first transfer plate is attached to the first clamp plate and the second side of the second transfer plate is attached to the second clamp plate.

[0008] In some embodiments, the temperature control system is further configured to heat or cool at least one of the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate.

[0009] In some embodiments, for at least one of the one or more transfer modules, the first transfer plate, the second transfer plate, and the gas permeable membrane are at least partially within the housing.

[0010] In some embodiments, the housing is insulated.

[0011] In some embodiments, the temperature control system includes one or more solid state heat pumps.

[0012] In some embodiments, the heat sink is configured to cool one or more solid-state heat pumps.

[0013] In some embodiments, a fan is configured to cool the heat sink.

[0014] In some embodiments, the one or more solid-state heat pumps are configured to maintain the one or more transfer modules at a desired temperature based on at least one or more temperature measuring devices.

[0015] In some embodiments, the one or more solid state heat pumps include one or more thermoelectric coolers.

[0016] In some embodiments, the one or more thermoelectric coolers include one or more Peltier effect coolers.

[0017] In some embodiments, the temperature control system is controlled based on the temperature of the fluid in the first fluid channel measured by one or more temperature measuring devices and / or the temperature of the fluid in the second fluid channel.

[0018] In some embodiments, the one or more temperature measuring devices include one or more thermistors.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first or second fluid channel is a serpentine fluid channel.

[0020] In some embodiments, one or more of the conductivity sensors are configured with interdigitated electrodes.

[0021] In some embodiments, at least one of the fluid in the first fluid channel or the fluid in the second fluid channel comprises at least a portion of a fluid sample.

[0022] In some embodiments, at least one of the fluid in the first fluid channel or the fluid in the second fluid channel comprises at least a portion of a fluid sample that has been treated with a reagent.

[0023] In some embodiments, at least one of the fluid in the first fluid channel or the fluid in the second fluid channel comprises deionized water.

[0024] In some embodiments, the gas permeable membrane comprises a CO2 permeable membrane.

[0025] In some embodiments, the total organic carbon (TOC) of the fluid sample is determined using the measured conductivity of a fluid in a portion of a first fluid channel separated from a second fluid channel by a gas-permeable membrane, measured at a desired temperature, and / or the conductivity of a fluid in a portion of a second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by a gas-permeable membrane, measured at a desired temperature.

[0026] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a third channel, wherein the fluid in the third channel comprises an unmodified portion of the fluid sample, the temperature control system changes the temperature of the unmodified portion of the fluid sample to a desired temperature, and the one or more conductivity sensors measure the conductivity of the unmodified portion of the fluid sample at the desired temperature.

[0027] In some embodiments, the total organic carbon (TOC) of the fluid sample is determined using the measured conductivity of a fluid in a portion of a first fluid channel separated from a second fluid channel by a gas-permeable membrane measured at the desired temperature, and / or the measured conductivity of a fluid in a portion of a second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by a gas-permeable membrane measured at the desired temperature, and / or the measured conductivity of an unaltered portion of the fluid sample at the desired temperature.

[0028] In some embodiments, the desired temperature is 25°C.

[0029] Another implementation of the present disclosure is a system for analyzing total organic carbon (TOC) in a fluid at a desired temperature, the system including one or more transfer modules, each transfer module including: a first transfer plate having a first side and a second side, with a first fluid channel formed on the first side of the first transfer plate; a second transfer plate having a first side and a second side, with a second fluid channel formed on the first side of the second transfer plate, with the first side of the first transfer plate facing the first side of the second transfer plate; and a CO2-permeable membrane disposed between the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate, wherein a portion of the first fluid channel and a portion of the second fluid channel are separated by the CO2-permeable membrane. The device also includes one or more temperature measurement devices configured to measure the temperature of the fluid in the first fluid channel and / or the temperature of the fluid in the second fluid channel; a temperature control system configured to heat or cool at least one or both of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate of each of the one or more transfer modules, wherein heating or cooling at least one or both of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate heats or cools the fluid in the first fluid channel and / or the fluid in the second fluid channel to a desired temperature; and one or more conductivity sensors configured to measure the conductivity of the fluid in a portion of the first fluid channel separated from the second fluid channel by the CO2-permeable membrane and / or the conductivity of the fluid in a portion of the second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by the CO2-permeable membrane.

[0030] In some embodiments, the system includes multiple transfer modules.

[0031] In some embodiments, for each transfer module, the second side of the first transfer plate is attached to the first clamp plate and the second side of the second transfer plate is attached to the second clamp plate.

[0032] In some embodiments, the temperature control system is further configured to heat or cool at least one of the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate.

[0033] In some embodiments, for at least one of the one or more transfer modules, the first transfer plate, the second transfer plate, and the CO 2 permeable membrane are at least partially within the housing.

[0034] In some embodiments, the housing is insulated.

[0035] In some embodiments, the temperature control system includes one or more solid state heat pumps.

[0036] In some embodiments, the heat sink is configured to cool one or more solid-state heat pumps.

[0037] In some embodiments, a fan is configured to cool the heat sink.

[0038] In some embodiments, the one or more solid-state heat pumps are configured to maintain the one or more transfer modules at a desired temperature based on at least one or more temperature measuring devices.

[0039] In some embodiments, the one or more solid state heat pumps include one or more thermoelectric coolers.

[0040] In some embodiments, the temperature control system is controlled based on the temperature of the fluid in the first fluid channel measured by one or more temperature measuring devices and / or the temperature of the fluid in the second fluid channel.

[0041] In some embodiments, the one or more temperature measuring devices include one or more thermistors.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first or second fluid channel is a serpentine fluid channel.

[0043] In some embodiments, one or more of the conductivity sensors are configured with interdigitated electrodes.

[0044] In some embodiments, the desired temperature is 25°C.

[0045] Yet another implementation of the present disclosure is a method for analyzing total organic carbon (TOC) in a fluid at a desired temperature, the method including providing one or more transfer modules, each transfer module including: a first transfer plate having a first side and a second side, with a first fluid channel formed in the first side of the first transfer plate; a second transfer plate having a first side and a second side, with a second fluid channel formed in the first side of the second transfer plate, with the first side of the first transfer plate facing the first side of the second transfer plate; and a CO2-permeable membrane disposed between the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate, wherein a portion of the first fluid channel and a portion of the second fluid channel are separated by the CO2-permeable membrane.The method also includes heating or cooling the fluid in the first fluid channel and / or the fluid in the second fluid channel to a desired temperature by measuring a temperature of the fluid in the first fluid channel and / or a temperature of the fluid in the second fluid channel with one or more temperature measurement devices configured to measure a temperature of the fluid in the first fluid channel and / or a temperature of the fluid in the second fluid channel, and providing a temperature control system configured to heat or cool at least one or both of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate, Heating or cooling at least one or both of the first and second fluid channels includes heating or cooling the fluid in the first fluid channel and / or the fluid in the second fluid channel to a desired temperature, and measuring the conductivity of the fluid in a portion of the first fluid channel separated from the second fluid channel by a CO2-permeable membrane and / or the conductivity of the fluid in a portion of the second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by a CO2-permeable membrane using one or more conductivity sensors configured to measure the conductivity of the fluid in the first fluid channel and / or the conductivity of the fluid in the second fluid channel.

[0046] In some embodiments, the method includes providing a plurality of transfer modules.

[0047] In some embodiments, for each transfer module, the second side of the first transfer plate is attached to the first clamp plate and the second side of the second transfer plate is attached to the second clamp plate.

[0048] In some embodiments, the temperature control system is further configured to heat or cool at least one of the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate.

[0049] In some embodiments, for at least one of the one or more transfer modules, the first transfer plate, the second transfer plate, and the CO 2 permeable membrane are at least partially within the housing.

[0050] In some embodiments, the housing is insulated.

[0051] In some embodiments, the temperature control system includes one or more solid state heat pumps.

[0052] In some embodiments, the heat sink is configured to cool one or more solid-state heat pumps.

[0053] In some embodiments, a fan is configured to cool the heat sink.

[0054] In some embodiments, the one or more solid-state heat pumps are configured to maintain the one or more transfer modules at a desired temperature based on at least one or more temperature measuring devices.

[0055] In some embodiments, the one or more solid state heat pumps include one or more thermoelectric coolers.

[0056] In some embodiments, the temperature control system is controlled based on the temperature of the fluid in the first fluid channel measured by one or more temperature measuring devices and / or the temperature of the fluid in the second fluid channel.

[0057] In some embodiments, the one or more temperature measuring devices include one or more thermistors.

[0058] In some embodiments, the first or second fluid channel is a serpentine fluid channel.

[0059] In some embodiments, one or more of the conductivity sensors are configured with interdigitated electrodes.

[0060] In some embodiments, the desired temperature is 25°C.

[0061] Yet another implementation of the present disclosure is a method for determining the conductivity of a fluid at a desired temperature, the method including providing a temperature control system for controlling a temperature of a fluid in a temperature-controlled environment, receiving a fluid in the temperature-controlled environment and changing the temperature of the received fluid to a desired temperature using the temperature control system, and measuring the conductivity of the fluid at the desired temperature using a conductivity sensor.

[0062] In some embodiments, the measured conductivity of the fluid at a desired temperature is used in determining the total organic carbon concentration of the fluid.

[0063] In some embodiments, determining the total organic carbon concentration of the fluid includes treating the fluid such that the electrical conductivity of the fluid is proportional to the total organic carbon concentration of the fluid.

[0064] In some embodiments, determining the total organic carbon concentration of the fluid is based solely on the conductivity of the fluid and a known constant relating the conductivity of the organic carbon at a specified temperature to the concentration of the organic carbon at the specified temperature.

[0065] In some embodiments, the steps of measuring the conductivity of the fluid and determining the total organic carbon concentration of the fluid are performed in less than 15 seconds.

[0066] In some embodiments, the conductivity sensor is configured with interdigitated electrodes.

[0067] In some embodiments, the desired temperature is 25°C.

[0068] Yet another implementation of the present disclosure is a method for analyzing total organic carbon (TOC) in a fluid, the method including providing a temperature-controlled environment, a first conductivity sensor, and a second conductivity sensor, providing a first sample of the fluid, the first sample of the fluid including a concentration of inorganic carbon proportional to the inorganic carbon concentration of the fluid, providing a second sample of the fluid, the second sample of the fluid including a concentration of total carbon proportional to the total carbon concentration of the fluid, measuring the conductivity of the first sample using the first conductivity sensor, measuring the conductivity of the second sample using the second conductivity sensor, and determining the total organic carbon of the fluid based on the conductivity of the first sample and the conductivity of the second sample.

[0069] Yet another implementation of the present disclosure is a method for analyzing total organic carbon (TOC) in a fluid, the method including providing a thermally controlled environment, a first conductivity sensor, a second conductivity sensor, a first sample of fluid, and a second sample of fluid, measuring the conductivity of the first sample of fluid with the first conductivity sensor, measuring the conductivity of the second sample of fluid with the second conductivity sensor, and determining a total organic carbon concentration of the fluid based on the conductivity of the first sample and the conductivity of the second sample.

[0070] In some embodiments, the method further comprises treating the first sample with a reagent such that the first sample represents the total inorganic carbon of the fluid.

[0071] In some embodiments, the method further comprises oxidizing the second sample such that the second sample represents total carbon in the fluid.

[0072] In some embodiments, the steps of measuring the conductivity of the first sample, measuring the conductivity of the second sample, and determining the total organic carbon concentration of the fluid are performed in less than 15 seconds.

[0073] In some embodiments, the thermally controlled environment is 25°C.

[0074] Yet another implementation of the present disclosure is a method for measuring the conductivity of a fluid at a specified temperature, the method including providing a conductivity cell and a thermally controlled environment, the conductivity cell being at least partially within the thermally controlled environment, passing a fluid through the conductivity cell, and measuring the conductivity of the fluid using the conductivity cell.

[0075] In some embodiments, the conductivity cell includes interdigitated electrodes.

[0076] In some embodiments, the conductivity measurement is performed while the fluid flows through the conductivity cell.

[0077] In some embodiments, the fluid passes through a serpentine before entering the conductivity cell.

[0078] In some embodiments, the serpentine is formed in the transfer plate.

[0079] In some embodiments, the thermally controlled environment is controlled based on a thermistor configured to measure the temperature of the fluid and / or the conductivity cell.

[0080] In some embodiments, the thermally controlled environment includes a transfer plate and a solid-state heat pump configured to control the temperature of the transfer plate.

[0081] In some embodiments, the steps of passing the fluid through the conductivity cell and measuring the conductivity of the fluid are performed in 100 milliseconds or less.

[0082] In some embodiments, the steps of passing the fluid through the conductivity cell and measuring the conductivity of the fluid are performed in 100 milliseconds or less.

[0083] Yet another implementation of the present disclosure is a device for measuring the conductivity of a fluid at a specified temperature, the device including a thermally controlled environment, a fluid channel disposed within the thermally controlled environment, and a conductivity cell disposed within the thermally controlled environment, wherein the fluid flows through the fluid channel and through the conductivity cell.

[0084] In some embodiments, the fluid channel is a serpentine fluid channel.

[0085] In some embodiments, the conductivity cell includes a plurality of interdigitated electrodes.

[0086] In some embodiments, the thermally controlled environment includes a transfer plate and a temperature control system.

[0087] In some embodiments, the fluid channels are formed in a transfer plate.

[0088] In some embodiments, the temperature control system includes a heat pump.

[0089] In some embodiments, the heat pump is a solid-state heat pump.

[0090] In some embodiments, the thermally controlled environment includes one or more transfer modules, each transfer module including a first transfer plate having a first side and a second side, with a first fluid channel formed on the first side of the first transfer plate, and a second transfer plate having a first side and a second side, with a second fluid channel formed on the first side of the second transfer plate, the first side of the first transfer plate facing the first side of the second transfer plate; and a temperature of a fluid in the first fluid channel and and / or one or more temperature measurement devices configured to measure the temperature of the fluid in the second fluid channel; a temperature control system configured to heat or cool at least one or both of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate of each of the one or more transfer modules, wherein heating or cooling at least one or both of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate heats or cools the fluid in the first fluid channel and / or the fluid in the second fluid channel to a desired temperature; and one or more conductivity sensors configured to measure the conductivity of the fluid in at least a portion of the first fluid channel and / or the conductivity of the fluid in at least a portion of the second fluid channel at the desired temperature.

[0091] In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more transfer modules further includes a gas-permeable membrane disposed between the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate, wherein a portion of the first fluid channel and a portion of the second fluid channel are separated by the gas-permeable membrane, and the one or more conductivity sensors are configured to measure the conductivity of a fluid in the portion of the first fluid channel separated from the second fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane at the desired temperature and / or the conductivity of a fluid in the portion of the second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane at the desired temperature.

[0092] In some embodiments, the temperature control system includes one or more heat pumps.

[0093] In some embodiments, each of the one or more heat pumps is a solid-state heat pump.

[0094] In some embodiments, each solid-state heat pump is a thermoelectric cooler.

[0095] In some embodiments, each thermoelectric cooler is a Peltier effect cooler.

[0096] Yet another implementation of the present disclosure is a device for measuring the dynamic conductivity of a flowing fluid, the device including a first fluid channel, a second fluid channel disposed parallel to the first fluid channel, with fluid flowing through an inner surface of the second fluid channel, a membrane separating the first fluid channel from the second fluid channel, and a plurality of electrodes positioned along the inner surface of the second fluid channel, the plurality of electrodes being spaced apart along the direction of fluid flow and in contact with the flowing fluid, and a measurement of the dynamic conductivity of the flowing fluid being able to be measured by passing a current through the plurality of electrodes.

[0097] Additional advantages will be set forth in part in the description which follows, or may be learned by practice. The advantages will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. In making the claims, it is to be understood that both the foregoing general summary and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0098] Illustrative features and implementations are disclosed in the accompanying drawings. However, the disclosure is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

[0099] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an integrated transfer module including three conductivity cells, according to one implementation. [Figure 2] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a partially exploded integrated transfer module according to one implementation. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an integrated transfer module according to one implementation. [Figure 4A] 4A shows a transfer module including a conductivity cell according to one implementation. FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of a conductivity cell including two heat sinks. [Figure 4B] 4A and 4B show a transfer module including a conductivity cell, according to one implementation. FIG. 4B shows a side view of a transfer module cell including two heat sinks. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates a cutaway view of a pair of transfer plates including flow channels, according to one implementation. [Figure 6A] 6A and 6B show views of the surface of a transfer plate containing flow channels, according to one implementation. [Figure 6B] 6A and 6B show views of the surface of a transfer plate including flow channels, according to one implementation. Figure 6B shows another configuration of the flow channels. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates a side view of a transfer module including a thermistor, according to one implementation. [Figure 8] 8A shows a perspective view of a housing with six input / output ports, and FIG. 8B shows a view of one side of a housing with four input / output ports. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a perspective view of one side of a housing according to one implementation. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a rear view of one side of a housing according to one implementation. [Figure 11] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cross section of a housing containing three transfer modules according to one implementation. [Figure 12A] 12A and 12B show diagrams of a transfer module including a thermistor according to implementations described herein. In particular, FIG. 12A shows a perspective view of the transfer module. [Figure 12B] 12A and 12B show diagrams of a transfer module including a thermistor, according to implementations described herein. In particular, FIG. 12B shows an example cross-section of a transfer module including a thermistor. [Figure 12C] 12A-12C show diagrams of a transfer module including a thermistor, according to implementations described herein. In particular, FIG. 12C shows an example of a top view of the transfer module. [Figure 13] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a housing containing three transfer modules according to one implementation. [Figure 14] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a corner of a housing including a transfer module according to one implementation. [Figure 15] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a transfer module including vias and solder points, according to one implementation. [Figure 16] 1A-1C show front, back, side, and cross-sectional views of a transfer plate including four fluid channels according to one implementation. [Figure 17] 1A-1C show perspective, front, and back views of a transfer plate including four fluid channels, according to one implementation. [Figure 18] 1A-1C show two views of a transfer plate containing four fluid channels, according to one implementation. [Figure 19] 1A and 1B show front and rear views of a clamping plate according to one implementation. [Figure 20] 1A and 1B show front and back views of a transfer plate according to one implementation. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a transfer module including a transfer channel configured to allow fluid flow across a membrane. [Figure 22] 1 illustrates a perspective view of fluid channels formed in a transfer plate according to one implementation. [Figure 23] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the integrated transfer module with one shroud piece removed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0100] Before the present methods and systems are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited to particular synthetic methods, specific components, or particular compositions. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.

[0101] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" one particular value, and / or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values ​​are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

[0102] "Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and the description includes instances in which the event or circumstance occurs and instances in which the event or circumstance does not occur.

[0103] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word "comprise" and variations of this word, such as "comprising" and "comprises," mean "including, but not limited to," and are not intended to exclude, for example, other additives, components, integers, or steps. "Exemplary" means "an example of" and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. "Etc." is used for descriptive purposes, not limiting.

[0104] Disclosed are components that can be used to implement the disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed, specific reference to each of their various individual and collective combinations and permutations may not be explicitly disclosed, but it is understood that each is specifically contemplated and described herein for all methods and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application, including, but not limited to, steps in the disclosed methods. Thus, where there are various additional steps that may be performed, it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any particular embodiment or combination of embodiments of the disclosed methods.

[0105] The devices and methods disclosed herein provide an integrated transfer module for a total organic carbon (TOC) analyzer. The TOC analyzer can monitor water quality (e.g., purity). Results can be reported in the form of three parameters: the specific conductivity of the sample at 25°C, the concentration of inorganic carbon-containing species, and the concentration of organic carbon-containing species. Conductivity can represent the total ionic content of the sample, inorganic carbon represents carbon dioxide (CO2), and organic carbon represents all organic contaminants in the sample. Knowing all three parameters can enable a user to tailor their water cleaning procedure to a specific contaminant or group of contaminants.

[0106] Throughout this disclosure, the terms "thermoelectric cooler," "Peltier module," "TEC," and "Peltier effect cooler" may be used interchangeably to refer to solid-state heat pumps. It should be understood that the use of other heating / cooling devices as part of a temperature control system is contemplated by this disclosure.

[0107] In some implementations, it may be desirable to report conductivity measurements at a desired temperature. For example, in some applications, it may be desirable to report the conductivity of a sample at 25°C. However, the sample temperature may not be 25°C. Therefore, to report conductivity measurements at a desired temperature, a conductivity cell may be equipped with a thermocouple that provides a signal corresponding to the sample temperature. Using the sample temperature and sample conductivity and the known conductivity cell geometry (i.e., cell constant), the specific conductivity of the sample at the desired temperature (e.g., 25°C) is calculated. However, this calculation is based on an assumption of sample water content. In some implementations, this assumption may be normalized to a common salt (e.g., NaCl) or acid (e.g., HCl or H2CO3). According to implementations described herein, a compact device can simultaneously and directly measure the conductivity of multiple fluids at a desired temperature (e.g., a standard reference temperature of 25°C, or other desired temperature) without the need to utilize temperature compensation algorithms.

[0108] 1 shows a block diagram of a device including a temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 configured to operate as part of a total organic carbon (TOC) analyzer (not shown). Implementations of the temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 can perform indirect measurements of TOC carbon and other water quality parameters using a CO2-permeable membrane 104, a conductivity sensor (not shown), a temperature measurement device (not shown), and a temperature-controlled enclosure (105). Measurements using the temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 can be indirect.

[0109] In TOC analyzer applications, through-hole drillings in the carbon dioxide permeable membrane 104 can be used to maintain a fluid path within the envelope of the temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 .

[0110] TOC analyzers can perform water quality measurements by manipulating water samples and using the water's properties to calculate relevant parameters. For example, the specific conductivity of water at the instrument temperature can be measured to provide the basis for calculating the required values. Specific conductivity is an electrical property of a substance. For liquids, specific conductivity is related to ion concentration (similar to electron concentration in metals) and ion mobility. Ion mobility is ion-type dependent as well as temperature dependent.

[0111] 1 , implementations described herein include one or more temperature-controlled conductivity cells 101, 102, 103. By performing conductivity measurements at a desired temperature, the need to use assumptions to standardize the conductivity measurements is eliminated. For example, the desired temperature can be an industry standard temperature (e.g., 25° C.). By measuring the conductivity of a sample at the desired temperature, the conductivity of the sample at the desired temperature can be reported without performing calculations based on assumptions about the sample's moisture content.

[0112] Referring again to FIG. 1 , implementations described herein can be configured to perform inorganic carbon concentration measurements at controlled temperatures. The input stream to the temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 includes a sample 120, a reagent 122, and deionized water 124. The deionized water (DI) 124 flow circulates in a closed loop with the ion trap 106. The loop can be diverted to two parallel flow channels 110, 112 facing the CO2-permeable membrane 104. The addition of a reagent (e.g., a strong acid) 122 can reduce the acidity (pH) of the sample. One input stream 116 can include a portion of the sample 120 to which the reagent 122 has been added. The carbonic acid equilibrium in the sample water (H2CO3) can be stoichiometrically shifted toward molecular CO2. The reagent-containing sample, containing DI water, flows through fluidic channels 116, 118, which match one of the fluidic channels 110, 112 on the other side of the CO2-permeable membrane 104. A portion of the unaltered sample stream 114 can also pass through a conductivity cell 101, which can measure conductivity at a desired temperature within a temperature-controlled enclosure 105. For streams 116 and 118, CO2 migrates through the membrane 104 toward equilibrium. Conductivity cells 102, 103, located downstream of the membrane 104 on the DI water channels 110, 112, measure conductivity within the temperature-controlled enclosure 105 at a desired temperature. The specific conductivities of streams 116, 118 at the actual desired temperature (e.g., 25°C) are measured in a manner similar to the conductivity measurement of the unaltered sample 114. This measurement can be performed without using calculations that involve assumptions about water content, since the ionic content of water can be derived exclusively from CO2. However, several assumptions are made to model the temperature dependence of the kinetics of CO2 permeation through the membrane 104. The specific conductivity is then recalculated into carbon concentration, which represents the inorganic content of the sample.

[0113] Continuing with reference to FIG. 1 , the implementations described herein can be used to measure organic carbon concentration at a controlled temperature. The water sample 120 can be sufficiently oxidized so that the organic content of the water sample 120 is converted to carbon dioxide (CO2). This can be done using several techniques. Non-limiting examples of sample oxidation techniques include dosing the sample with a chemical oxidant (in addition to adding an acid) and exposing the sample to short-wave ultraviolet light. The oxidized sample flows through channel 118 on the side of the CO2-permeable membrane facing the second channel 112 of the DI loop. At a desired temperature (e.g., 25°C), a third conductivity measurement can be obtained. A similar measurement is performed for inorganic carbon. The resulting carbon concentration represents the total carbon content of the sample. "Resulting carbon" is "total carbon" (TC). Stream 118 has all of the carbon content of the sample in the form of equilibrated CO2 (organic carbon converted to CO2 by oxidation and added to the existing inorganic carbon content). Acidification pushes CO2 through the membrane, and thus TC is being measured in stream 103. Stream 102 measures only the carbon that comes from inorganic forms of carbon in stream 116 (IC). By subtracting the inorganic carbon concentration, the organic carbon concentration can be obtained (TOC=TC-IC).

[0114] The implementations described herein can implement a modular system for measuring multiple sample properties. Referring to FIG. 1 , a non-limiting example of a modular total organic carbon analyzer having three conductivity cells 101, 102, and 103 is shown. Referring to FIG. 1 , the first conductivity cell 101 can be configured so that sample water passes directly through the conductivity cell 101 without treatment and without passing through any membranes. Thus, the conductivity cell 101 can be a conductivity cell including only one serpentine fluid channel 114, which is used to measure conductivity at a desired temperature within a temperature-controlled enclosure 105. Passing a fluid through the conductivity cell and measuring the conductivity of the fluid at the desired temperature can be performed very quickly. For example, as the fluid passes through the conductivity cell, the fluid can be adjusted to the desired temperature and the conductivity can be measured in 100 milliseconds or less. The second conductivity cell 102 can be configured to measure the total inorganic carbon of a sample at a desired temperature in a temperature-controlled enclosure 105, and the second conductivity cell 102 may include two serpentine channels: one fluid channel 116 for a sample treated with a reagent 122 and one fluid channel 116 for deionized water 124. Finally, the third conductivity cell 103 can be configured to measure the total carbon at a desired temperature in a temperature-controlled enclosure 105. Thus, the TOC of a sample can be determined by subtracting the total inorganic carbon measured in the second conductivity cell 102 at a desired temperature in the temperature-controlled enclosure 105 from the total carbon measured in the third conductivity cell 103 at a desired temperature in the temperature-controlled enclosure 105. This third conductivity cell 103 can include a fluid channel 118 for the oxidized sample water and another fluid channel for deionized water 124. Because the conductivity cells 101, 102, 103 can be constructed as separate modules, cells can be added or removed to construct a temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 that can measure different properties or a different number of properties than those described with reference to FIG. 1 at a desired temperature.

[0115] In some implementations, the conductivity cells 101, 102, 103 can include “interdigitated electrodes.” Interdigitated electrodes are an array of electrodes isolated from other electrodes by sections of insulating material. The interdigitated electrodes can be configured as conductivity sensors that measure the conductivity of a sample at a desired temperature within a temperature-controlled enclosure 105 as the sample flows through the conductivity cells 101, 102, 103. In implementations using interdigitated electrodes, the interdigitated electrodes can provide inherent signal amplification. Various materials can be used to construct the conductivity cells 101, 102, 103. As a non-limiting example, the conductivity cells 101, 102, 103 can be formed in a transfer plate formed mostly or entirely of plastic (e.g., PCTFE), while the interdigitated electrodes can be made of gold. Furthermore, the electrodes can be arranged in various configurations around the fluid flow. Non-limiting examples of electrode configurations include interdigitated electrodes along the flow path and interdigitated electrodes around the flow (i.e., electrodes on opposite sides of the fluid channel). In some implementations, conductivity measurements are made via a conductivity sensor located on the opposite side of the fluid channel from the membrane 104 at a desired temperature in a temperature-controlled enclosure 105. For example, an interdigitated electrode can be positioned opposite the membrane 104.

[0116] Implementations of the present disclosure can be used as part of a commercially available TOC analyzer. Various numbers and configurations of fluid channels are contemplated as part of the temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100. As a non-limiting example, the integrated transfer module may include four fluid channels, where one fluid channel contains deionized water, one fluid channel contains a water sample used to measure total carbon, another fluid channel contains an unmanipulated water sample, and another stream contains a water sample used to measure inorganic carbon. Various numbers and combinations of fluid channels are contemplated.

[0117] In some implementations, the device accepts four fluid streams: DI water, IC (total inorganic carbon), TC (total carbon), and raw sample water, with each fluid stream flowing through a fluid channel, for the purpose of simultaneously and directly measuring the conductivity of the IC, TC, and raw sample fluid at a desired temperature (e.g., a reference temperature of 25°C, although other temperatures are contemplated within the scope of this disclosure). The temperature control system can include a thermoelectric cooler (e.g., a Peltier effect cooler) utilized to bring all four streams to the desired temperature. The fluid streams pass from the temperature stabilization path through the thickness of the temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 to the measurement path. In some cases, the measurement path is maintained at a desired temperature (e.g., 25°C) using a second thermoelectric module. The selective membrane permeability properties are utilized to transfer carbon dioxide from the IC and TC streams to the DI water stream at the desired temperature; thus, the carbon dioxide-permeable membrane 104 separates the DI water stream from the IC and TC streams. To mirror the DI water path, through-hole drilling in the carbon dioxide permeable membrane 104 can be used to direct the IC and TC streams from the measurement manifold to the other side of the membrane 104. Interdigitated electrodes embedded in the manifold at the transfer points of the ionic species allow for accurate measurement of the small impedance in the environment between the two metal plates separated by the DI fluid stream and the raw sample stream at the desired temperature.

[0118] Implementations described herein can enable accurate conductivity measurements without the need for temperature compensation calculations to a desired temperature (e.g., 25°C) and / or simplified structure of the conductivity measurement apparatus compared to some conductivity measurement devices. Additionally, measuring multiple streams within a single module can reduce measurement errors due to manufacturing variations compared to some conductivity measurement devices.

[0119] In some implementations, the measurement device may be housed in an enclosure that is environmentally controlled to the desired temperature instead of or in addition to directly controlling the stream temperature. Other implementations of temperature-controlled membrane conductivity measurement apparatus may avoid perforating the carbon dioxide permeable membrane 104 by utilizing multiple fluid manifolds or by passing the stream in and out of manifolds in multiple stages. In these implementations, additional temperature control in the environment outside the manifolds may be used to maintain the desired temperature.

[0120] Heating or cooling the temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 can be performed according to some implementations. Heating and / or cooling modules can be attached to one or both sides of the temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 (e.g., the sample side and the DI side). According to some implementations, one heater / cooler is configured to stabilize the temperature of the sample water, while another heater / cooler is configured to stabilize the temperature of the deionized water.

[0121] A non-limiting example of a cooling module that may be part of the temperature control system is a Peltier-effect cooler, which may include a heat sink and / or a fan. The heating or cooling module may include a sensor (e.g., a thermistor) and control circuitry configured to maintain the temperature of the temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 within a specified tolerance. The control circuitry can control the heating or cooling module based on the sensor output. For example, if the sensor determines that the temperature of the temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 (i.e., the clamp plate or transfer plate) exceeds a desired temperature, the control circuitry can activate the cooling module. As a non-limiting example, the temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 100 may be maintained within 0.1°C of a target temperature of 25°C, although various levels of tolerance and target temperatures are contemplated.

[0122] 2, various numbers of transfer module conductivity cells 101, 102, 103 and transfer modules can be integrated into an integrated transfer module 200. One or more fans 202 and heat sinks 204 are configured to cool one or more thermoelectric coolers (not shown). The integrated transfer module 200 can include a temperature-controlled (e.g., insulated) housing 206 that encloses one or more individual transfer modules (not shown). The housing 206 can include one or more ports 208 configured to allow fluid to flow into or out of the integrated transfer module 200.

[0123] 3 depicts a cross section of the integrated transfer module 200 shown in FIG. 2 with a portion of the temperature-controlled housing 206 removed. The same heat sink 204 is shown, as are three individual transfer modules 302 containing ports 208. In this case, there is a separate thermoelectric cooler (e.g., a Peltier effect cooler) associated with each heat sink 204 and on each face of the individual transfer module 302.

[0124] 4A and 4B depict a single temperature-controlled transfer module 302, as depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG. 4A depicts a perspective view of the transfer module 302, and FIG. 4B depicts a side view of the transfer module 302. The transfer module 302 includes two heat sinks 204, two thermoelectric coolers 402, and two transfer plates 406. A membrane 104 is positioned between the two transfer plates 406 such that the membrane 104 separates two fluid channels (not shown) formed in the two transfer plates 406. Fluid can enter and exit the transfer module 302 through fluid ports 208, which are attached to holes passing through the clamping plates 404. In implementations configured to analyze the CO content of a fluid stream, membrane 104 can be a CO permeable membrane and the second fluid stream can include deionized water, so that CO can pass from the first fluid stream to the second, and the second fluid stream can be analyzed (e.g., by measuring the conductivity of the second fluid stream) to determine the CO content of the first fluid stream. Various materials can be used to form the various components shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. As non-limiting examples, heat sink 204 can be made of aluminum, clamp plate 404 can be made of aluminum, and transfer plate 406 can be formed using PCTFE. Heat sink 204 and a thermoelectric cooler are used to maintain transfer module 302 and the fluid entering transfer module 302 at a desired temperature so that measurements involving the fluid can be performed at the desired temperature.

[0125] FIG. 5 depicts a top view of two transfer plates 406 containing fluid channels 512-514 arranged in a serpentine configuration. The fluid channels 512, 514 are formed in separate transfer plates, and a membrane (not shown) is located between the two transfer plates 406, as shown in FIG. 4B. The first fluid channel 512 can carry deionized water, and the second fluid channel 514 can carry sample water, or vice versa. Various types of sample water can be used, and non-limiting examples of sample water include oxidized sample water or sample water with added reagents (e.g., reagents selected to adjust the pH of the water). Non-limiting examples of methods by which the sample can be oxidized include ultraviolet light, chemical oxidation, heating, and catalytic conversion. Fluid enters the first fluid channel 512 at a first inlet 506 and is cooled (or heated) in a first section 504 of the transfer plate 406. Fluid enters the second fluid channel 514 at the second inlet 507 and is cooled (or heated) in the first section 504. At the end of the first section 504 of each fluid channel 512, 514, the fluid channels 512, 514 begin to overlap at a junction 522. This junction 522 is the beginning of the second section 502 of the fluid channel 512, 514.

[0126] In the second section 502, the fluid channels 512, 514 are aligned so that they overlap, as viewed from above in FIG. 5 . In the second section 502 of each fluid channel 512, 514, gas transport can occur across a membrane (not shown) separating the fluid channels 512, 514. This second section 502 can also include an interdigitated electrode 520, which can be configured to perform dynamic conductivity measurements of the fluid in the first fluid channel 512. Thus, gas transport across the membrane and conductivity measurements are performed simultaneously at the same desired temperature while the fluid flows through the second section 502 of the first fluid channel 512. The dynamic conductivity measurements can be converted to equilibrium conductivity measurements (e.g., by using Fick's law of diffusion). Similarly, the kinetic curve can be used to estimate the equilibrium value of the measurement. Implementations described herein can perform organic carbon, total organic carbon, total inorganic carbon, and sample conductivity measurements in approximately 15 seconds at a desired temperature.

[0127] In some cases, the temperature measuring device 510 may be positioned to measure the temperature of the fluid after it exits the second section 502 of the fluid channels 512, 514. Advantageously, having the temperature measuring device in this location allows for the environment to be controlled to a desired temperature at the point of CO2 transfer and conductivity measurement. The present disclosure also contemplates placing the temperature measuring device 510 at various points along the meander of one or both fluid channels 512, 514, or elsewhere within the transfer module, or using multiple temperature measuring devices 510. As a non-limiting example, the temperature measuring device 510 may be positioned such that it measures the temperature of the fluid passing through the fluid channels 512, 514 before the conductivity measurement is performed. The fluid then exits the fluid channels 512, 514 and exits the transfer plate at outlets 508 formed in each transfer plate 406. One non-limiting example of a temperature measuring device 510 is a thermistor, although other devices may be used.

[0128] A cutaway perspective view of FIG. 5 is shown in FIG. 22. Two fluid channels 512, 514 are formed in a transfer plate (not shown). Each of the transfer plates is temperature controlled. As shown in FIG. 22, portions of the fluid channels 512, 514 do not overlap. At a junction 522, the fluid channels 512, 514 begin to overlap but are separated by a membrane 104. When the fluid channels 512, 514 are separated by the membrane 104, gas transport through the membrane 104 is possible. An interdigitated electrode 520 can measure the conductivity of one or both fluid channels. In some implementations, the interdigitated electrode 520 is configured to measure the conductivity of the fluid in the second fluid channel 514. For example, in some implementations, the membrane 104 is a CO2-permeable membrane and the second fluid channel 514 carries deionized water such that CO2 in the first fluid channel 512 can diffuse into the second fluid channel 514. Thus, according to some implementations, the conductivity of the fluid in the second fluid channel 514 can represent the concentration of CO2 in the second fluid channel 514. As described above, the interdigitated electrode 520 can perform conductivity measurements as the fluid flows through one or both fluid channels 512, 514 at a desired temperature.

[0129] Additionally, with reference to FIG. 21 , implementations described herein can include a transfer plate 406 with transfer channels 2202 that allow fluid to cross a membrane (not shown) through perforations in the membrane. According to the implementation shown in FIG. 21 , the transfer plate 406 can include two or more sets of interdigitated electrodes 520. Furthermore, implementations including transfer channels 2202 can effectively control the temperature of a fluid when one side of a transfer plate 406 is temperature controlled. Each of the one or more fluid channels 2204 can be temperature controlled on the same side of the membrane, and prior to gas transfer, some fluid channels can pass through the transfer channel 2202 on opposite sides of the membrane from other fluid channels. As a non-limiting example, an implementation including transfer channels 2202 can include four fluid channels (not shown) on the same side of the membrane, allowing four fluid channels to be simultaneously temperature controlled from one side of a transfer plate 406. The four fluid channels can include a fluid channel for the sample water, a fluid channel associated with measuring the inorganic carbon concentration, a fluid channel associated with measuring the total carbon concentration, and a fluid channel containing deionized water.

[0130] Alternate configurations of transfer plates and fluid channels are contemplated. For example, Figures 6A-6B depict alternate implementations having differently shaped fluid channels 512. In the non-limiting example shown in Figure 6A, the fluid channels 512 are approximately 8.75 inches long.

[0131] 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a transfer module. A fluid channel 512 is formed between two transfer plates 406, and a temperature measurement device 510 (e.g., a thermistor) is positioned to measure the temperature of the fluid passing through the transfer module before the fluid exits the transfer module at outlet 508.

[0132] 8A and 8B show perspective views of the front (FIG. 8A) and back (FIG. 8B) of an integrated transfer module including three transfer modules (not shown) inside a housing 206. The housing 206 includes input / output ports 208 for fluid to enter and exit each transfer module (not shown) within the housing 206. Various arrangements of the ports 208 are contemplated, and the transfer modules (not shown) can be arranged in various orders or configurations. In the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 9, the ports 208 include input / output ports for DI water, sample water, total organic carbon solution, and total inorganic carbon solution.

[0133] 9 shows a front view of one side 1000 of a temperature-controlled enclosure for an integrated transfer module (e.g., the enclosure shown in FIG. 2). An example of a temperature-controlled enclosure (not shown) includes a shroud piece 1002, a duct piece 1004 attached to the shroud piece 1002, and a fan 202 attached to the duct piece. The shroud piece 1002 is configured to be attached to another shroud piece (not shown) to at least partially enclose one or more transfer modules that make up the integrated transfer module. Holes in the shroud piece 1002 allow assembly screws, wiring, and fluid tubing to pass through the shroud piece and connect to the transfer module.

[0134] 10 shows a rear view of the side of the temperature-controlled enclosure depicted in FIG. 9. The side of the temperature-controlled enclosure includes an alignment pin 1106 and an interlocking lip 1108. The shroud piece 1002 can include insulation 1102. For example, the insulation 1102 can be a foam pad that covers the interior of the enclosure, and the insulation 1102 can be configured to seal the opening in the shroud piece 1002. In some implementations, the shroud piece 1002 can also include an insulating wall 1104.

[0135] As previously mentioned, the housing configurations depicted in Figures 2, 3, 8, 9, and 10 are intended as non-limiting examples of housings that may be used to position and control the temperature of transfer modules that are part of an integrated transfer module. Other housing configurations are contemplated.

[0136] FIG. 11 depicts a cross section of a temperature-controlled enclosure 1200 containing three transfer modules 302. The enclosure 1200 includes two shroud pieces 1002 attached along interlocking lips 1108. The enclosure 1200 includes an insulating wall 1104 and insulation 1102 on each shroud piece 1002. In the implementation shown in FIG. 11, the insulation 1102 is configured for thermal insulation and sealing. Each shroud piece 1002 includes a set of heat sinks 204 and fans 202. The transfer modules 302 may be held in place in part by pressure exerted by the insulation 1102.

[0137] 12A-12C depict a transfer module 302 including four temperature measurement devices 510 (e.g., thermistors). As shown in FIG. 12A, the clamping plate 404 may include slots 1302. The slots 1302 may allow electrical (or optical) connection to the temperature measurement devices 510 or other sensors located on or near fluid channels (not shown) formed in the transfer plate 406. As shown in FIG. 12B, the transfer plate 406 may include two or more temperature measurement devices 510 along the fluid channels 512. FIG. 12C is a top view of the transfer module depicted in FIG. 12A showing the slots 1302 formed in the clamping plate 404.

[0138] FIG. 13 depicts an alternative implementation of a housing 1402 for a temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 1400. Three fans 202 are each positioned on one side of the integrated transfer module, above three heat sinks 204. Various combinations of fans 202 and heat sinks 204 are contemplated. For example, in some implementations, multiple heat sinks 204 may be used on each side of each transfer module. Similarly, various numbers of fans 202 can be used to cool each heat sink 204. In some implementations, the fans 202 may not be attached to the housing 1402. Additionally, the use of alternative heating or cooling systems, such as vapor compression refrigeration, is contemplated. Similarly, FIG. 23 depicts a perspective view of a temperature-controlled integrated transfer module 1400 including three fans with the shroud piece 1002 removed. One side of each of three transfer modules 302 is shown, including three heat sinks 204 corresponding to the three fans 202 on the shroud piece 1002 .

[0139] 14 is a cross-sectional view of a corner of a temperature-controlled enclosure according to one implementation. The shroud pieces 1002 can include one or more pins 1106 that can be used to position the transfer module 302 relative to the shroud pieces 1002. The spacing between the shroud pieces 1002 can be set using one or more bosses 1502, which can form one or more gaps 1504 between the shroud pieces 1002.

[0140] 15 shows a portion of one transfer module 302, including an example of how wiring may be connected to the transfer module 302 using a printed circuit board (“PCB”) 1608 that includes vias 1602 for connection to the transfer module 302 and attachment points 1604 for wiring (not shown). The PCB 1608 can be attached to the transfer module 302, for example, by using screws 1606 that pass through the PCB 1608 and into the transfer plate 406.

[0141] According to some implementations, multiple fluid channels can be integrated into a single transfer plate. For example, referring to FIG. 16 , a transfer plate 1702 is shown including four fluid channels 512 arranged as four serpentines. The single transfer plate can include input / output ports corresponding to the input / output channels depicted in FIG. 1 (i.e., input streams can include sample, reagents, and deionized water). Various numbers of transfer modules can be integrated into a single transfer module; for example, transfer modules including any number of fluid streams can be used to perform the same or different water quality measurements as contemplated and described herein. Thus, in some implementations, an integrated transfer module (such as transfer module 302 shown in FIG. 3 ) can be constructed using a single transfer module including four fluid channels 512, or using two transfer modules instead of three. FIGS. 17 and 18 show alternative views of the transfer plate shown in FIG. 16 . The dimensions shown in FIGS. 16 , 17 , and 18 are intended as non-limiting examples only.

[0142] Figure 19 shows front and back views of the clamp plate, and Figure 20 shows front and back views of the transfer plate. The dimensions shown in Figures 19 and 20 are intended as non-limiting examples only.

[0143] Several exemplary implementations are provided herein. However, it is understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure herein. As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the term "comprising" and variations thereof are used synonymously with the term "including" and variations thereof and are open and non-limiting terms. Although the terms "comprising" and "including" are used herein to describe various implementations, the terms "consisting essentially of" and "consisting of" can be used in place of "comprising" and "including" to provide more specific implementations, and are also disclosed.

[0144] Disclosed are materials, systems, devices, methods, compositions, and components that can be used for, can be used in conjunction with, can be used in preparation for, or are products of the disclosed methods, systems, and devices. When these and other components are disclosed herein, and combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed, it is understood that specific reference to each of the various individual and collective combinations and permutations of these components is not expressly disclosed, but each is specifically contemplated and described herein. For example, when devices are disclosed and any and all combinations and permutations of devices are described, possible variations are specifically contemplated unless specifically indicated to the contrary. Likewise, any subset or combination of these is also specifically contemplated and disclosed. This concept applies to all aspects of this disclosure, including, but not limited to, steps in methods of using the disclosed systems or devices. Thus, if there are various additional steps that may be performed, it is understood that each of these additional steps may be performed with any particular method step or combination of method steps of the disclosed methods, and that each such combination or subset of combinations is to be considered specifically contemplated and disclosed.

[0145] While the methods and systems have been described in connection with preferred embodiments and specific examples, the scope is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments described, as the embodiments herein are intended in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive.

[0146] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a particular order. Thus, unless a method claim actually recites the order in which its steps are to be followed, or unless a claim or description specifically states that the steps are to be limited to a particular order, no order is intended to be inferred in any respect. This holds for any possible implicit basis for interpretation, including the obvious meaning derived from the arrangement of steps or operational flow, grammatical construction or punctuation, and logical matters regarding the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.

[0147] Throughout this application, various publications may be referenced, the disclosures of which in their entireties are hereby incorporated by reference into this application in order to more fully describe the state of the art to which the methods and systems pertain.

[0148] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the scope or spirit. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A device for measuring the conductivity of a fluid at a desired temperature, comprising: one or more transfer modules, each transfer module comprising: a first transfer plate having a first side and a second side, the first side having a first fluid channel formed therein; a second transfer plate having a first side and a second side, a second fluid channel formed on the first side of the second transfer plate, the first side of the first transfer plate facing the first side of the second transfer plate; and one or more transfer modules comprising a gas permeable membrane disposed between the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate, wherein a portion of the first fluid channel and a portion of the second fluid channel are separated by the gas permeable membrane; one or more temperature measurement devices configured to measure a temperature of fluid in at least one of the first fluid channel or the second fluid channel; a temperature control system configured to heat or cool at least one of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate of each of the one or more transfer modules, wherein heating or cooling the at least one of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate heats or cools the fluid to the desired temperature; and one or more conductivity sensors configured to measure i) the conductivity of the fluid in the portion of the first fluid channel separated from the second fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane at the desired temperature, and / or ii) the conductivity of the fluid in the portion of the second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane at the desired temperature; each transfer module further comprising a third fluid channel containing an unmodified portion of the fluid sample; the temperature control system changes the temperature of the unaltered portion of the fluid sample to the desired temperature; the one or more conductivity sensors measure the conductivity of the unaltered portion of the fluid sample at the desired temperature; 10. A device for determining total organic carbon (TOC) of a fluid sample using a measured conductivity of a fluid in a portion of the first fluid channel separated from the second fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane measured at the desired temperature, and / or a measured conductivity of a fluid in a portion of the second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane measured at the desired temperature, and / or a measured conductivity of the unaltered portion of the fluid sample at the desired temperature.

2. 10. The device of claim 1, wherein for each transfer module, the second side of the first transfer plate is attached to a first clamp plate and the second side of the second transfer plate is attached to a second clamp plate.

3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the temperature control system is further configured to heat or cool at least one of the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate.

4. The device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the temperature control system comprises one or more solid-state heat pumps cooled by a heat sink.

5. The device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the fluid in at least one of the first fluid channel or the second fluid channel comprises at least a portion of a fluid sample.

6. A device described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein for at least one of the one or more transfer modules, the first transfer plate, the second transfer plate, and the gas permeable membrane are at least partially within a housing.

7. The device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the gas-permeable membrane is a CO2-permeable membrane.

8. 1. A method for analyzing total organic carbon (TOC) in a fluid at a desired temperature, comprising: providing one or more transfer modules, each transfer module comprising: a first transfer plate having a first side and a second side, the first side having a first fluid channel formed therein; a second transfer plate having a first side and a second side, a second fluid channel formed on the first side of the second transfer plate, the first side of the first transfer plate facing the first side of the second transfer plate; and providing a gas permeable membrane disposed between the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate, wherein a portion of the first fluid channel and a portion of the second fluid channel are separated by the gas permeable membrane; measuring a temperature of the fluid in at least one of the first fluid channel or the second fluid channel using one or more temperature measurement devices; heating or cooling at least one of the fluid in the first fluid channel or the fluid in the second fluid channel to the desired temperature using a temperature control system, the temperature control system being configured to heat or cool at least one of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate of each transfer module to affect a temperature of at least one of the fluid in the first fluid channel or the fluid in the second fluid channel; using one or more conductivity sensors to measure i) the conductivity of the fluid in the portion of the first fluid channel separated from the second fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane, and / or ii) the conductivity of the fluid in the portion of the second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane; Including, each transfer module further comprising a third fluid channel containing an unmodified portion of the fluid sample; the temperature control system changes the temperature of the unaltered portion of the fluid sample to the desired temperature; the one or more conductivity sensors measure the conductivity of the unaltered portion of the fluid sample at the desired temperature; determining total organic carbon (TOC) of the fluid sample using the measured conductivity of a fluid in a portion of the first fluid channel separated from the second fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane measured at the desired temperature, and / or the conductivity of a fluid in a portion of the second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane measured at the desired temperature, and / or the measured conductivity of the unaltered portion of the fluid sample at the desired temperature; A method comprising:

9. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein for each transfer module, the second side of the first transfer plate is attached to a first clamp plate and the second side of the second transfer plate is attached to a second clamp plate.

10. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the temperature control system is further configured to heat or cool at least one of the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate.

11. A method described in any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein for at least one of the one or more transfer modules, the first transfer plate, the second transfer plate, and the gas permeable membrane are at least partially within a housing.

12. A method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the fluid in at least one of the first fluid channel or the second fluid channel comprises at least a portion of a fluid sample.

13. A method according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the temperature control system comprises one or more solid state heat pumps cooled by a heat sink.

14. A method described in any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the gas-permeable membrane is a CO2-permeable membrane.

15. 1. A system for analyzing total organic carbon (TOC) in a fluid at a desired temperature, comprising: one or more transfer modules, each transfer module comprising: a first transfer plate having a first side and a second side, the first side having a first fluid channel formed therein; a second transfer plate having a first side and a second side, a second fluid channel formed on the first side of the second transfer plate, the first side of the first transfer plate facing the first side of the second transfer plate; and one or more transfer modules comprising a gas permeable membrane disposed between the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate, wherein a portion of the first fluid channel and a portion of the second fluid channel are separated by the gas permeable membrane; one or more temperature measurement devices configured to measure the temperature of fluid in the first fluid channel and / or the temperature of fluid in the second fluid channel; a temperature control system configured to heat or cool at least one or both of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate of each of the one or more transfer modules, wherein the heating or cooling of the at least one or both of the first transfer plate and the second transfer plate heats or cools the fluid in the first fluid channel and / or the fluid in the second fluid channel to the desired temperature; one or more conductivity sensors configured to measure the conductivity of the fluid in the portion of the first fluid channel separated from the second fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane and / or the conductivity of the fluid in the portion of the second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane; Equipped with each transfer module further comprising a third fluid channel containing an unmodified portion of the fluid sample; the temperature control system changes the temperature of the unaltered portion of the fluid sample to the desired temperature; the one or more conductivity sensors measure the conductivity of the unaltered portion of the fluid sample at the desired temperature; 10. A system for determining total organic carbon (TOC) of a fluid sample using a measured conductivity of a fluid in a portion of the first fluid channel separated from the second fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane measured at the desired temperature, and / or a measured conductivity of a fluid in a portion of the second fluid channel separated from the first fluid channel by the gas-permeable membrane measured at the desired temperature, and / or a measured conductivity of the unaltered portion of the fluid sample at the desired temperature.

16. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein for each transfer module, the second side of the first transfer plate is attached to a first clamp plate and the second side of the second transfer plate is attached to a second clamp plate.

17. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the temperature control system is further configured to heat or cool at least one of the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate.

18. The system of any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the temperature control system comprises one or more solid state heat pumps cooled by a heat sink.

19. A system described in any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein for at least one of the one or more transfer modules, the first transfer plate, the second transfer plate, and the gas permeable membrane are at least partially within a housing.

20. 20. The system of any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the gas-permeable membrane is a CO2-permeable membrane.

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