Remote Liquid Sampling With Pressurized Gas Transport for ICP Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample analysis systems using Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) spectrometry face challenges in efficiently transporting and analyzing liquid samples over long distances, as existing methods often result in sample degradation and inconsistent analysis due to pressure and distance-related issues.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a remote sampling system and an analysis system, where a sample transfer line is used to transport a continuous liquid sample segment, coupled with a pressurized gas supply, and equipped with sample preparation devices for dilution, pre-concentration, and calibration, allowing for efficient delivery and analysis of samples over extended distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If liquid samples are transported over long distances using conventional methods, then the analysis capability is extended to remote locations, but sample degradation and inconsistent analysis occur due to pressure and distance-related issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pressurized gas flow system to transport liquid samples through a capillary tube over long distances. The gas pressure drives the liquid sample continuously from the remote sampling location to the analysis system, maintaining sample integrity and preventing degradation that would occur with conventional transport methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously adjusts and controls multiple parameters including gas pressure, flow rate, and sample concentration during transport. Online dilution and pre-concentration devices modify sample parameters in real-time to maintain optimal conditions for analysis despite the long transport distance.
2Productivity
If pressurized gas flow is used to transport liquid samples, then transport efficiency and sample delivery consistency improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressurized gas flow system serves multiple functions: it drives liquid sample transport, provides online dilution, enables pre-concentration, and supports continuous flow analysis. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems for each operation, thereby managing complexity while improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressurized gas acts as an intermediary medium that facilitates sample transport without direct mechanical contact. The gas flow mediates the movement of liquid samples through the capillary tube, enabling efficient transport while simplifying the overall system architecture compared to mechanical pumping solutions.
3Measurement precision
If online sample preparation devices are integrated for dilution and pre-concentration, then analysis accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates dilution and pre-concentration devices directly into the sample transport line, merging sample preparation functions with the transport system. This consolidation allows online sample preparation without requiring separate offline preparation steps, improving analysis accuracy while managing device complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment of sample concentration and preparation automatically during transport. The online dilution and pre-concentration devices operate autonomously based on real-time sample characteristics, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing operational complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables reliable and efficient analysis of trace element concentrations and isotope ratios in liquid samples over long distances by maintaining sample integrity through controlled transport and preparation, enhancing the accuracy and consistency of ICP spectrometry results.
Implementation Method 1
A sample transfer line can be configured to couple with a remote sampling system for driving and transporting liquid samples to a first location where a receiving line is positioned to receive the continuous liquid sample segment. A pressurized gas supply can be configured to transport liquid sample of sufficient volume for the analysis from a second location to the first location.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes an analysis system at a first location and one or more remote sampling systems at a second location remote from the first location. A sampling system can be configured to receive a remote liquid sample. The system also includes a sample transfer line configured to transport gas from the second location to the first location. The sample transfer line is configured to selectively couple with a remote sampling system for supplying a continuous liquid sample segment to the sample transfer line. The system can further include a sample receiving line at the first location. The sample receiving line is configured to selectively couple with the sample transfer line and the analysis system to receive the continuous liquid sample segment and supply the sample to an analysis device.