Solventless Calibration Using Solid Sorbents for Field Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional analytical instruments require solvents for calibration, which is challenging in non-laboratory settings like remote areas or moving vehicles, especially for volatile or semi-volatile analytes, and is further complicated by contamination issues.
Innovation Solution
A solventless calibration system using a fluid path with solid sorbents that absorb analytes and desorb them at controlled concentrations to analytical instruments, eliminating the need for solvents and minimizing contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional analytical instruments use solvents for calibration, then calibration can be performed in conventional laboratory settings, but it becomes complicated or impossible in non-laboratory settings such as remote areas or moving vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the solvent from the calibration process by using solid sorbent materials that can absorb and desorb analytes without requiring solvent administration. This allows calibration to be performed in non-laboratory settings where solvent handling would be problematic.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state parameter of the calibration standard from liquid (solvent-based) to solid (sorbent-based). This parameter change enables portability and simplifies operation in field conditions while maintaining calibration functionality.
2Reliability
If solvents are used to administer calibration standards, then analytes can be infused into analytical instruments, but contamination issues arise and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention converts the potential harm of solvent contamination into a benefit by using solid sorbents that eliminate solvent-related contamination while maintaining the ability to deliver analytes to the instrument for reliable calibration.
3Measurement precision
If standards are used for calibration curves, then accurate quantification can be achieved, but access to necessary standards is limited in field settings
Solution Approach 1:
The solid sorbent acts as an intermediary that stores the analyte in a stable, portable form and delivers it to the instrument as needed. This intermediary enables field calibration with maintained precision by replacing the need for direct access to liquid standards.
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 accurate and precise calibration of analytical instruments in non-conventional settings without the use of solvents, improving the reliability and efficiency of chemical species analysis.
Implementation Method 1
A solid sorbent is disposed along the fluid path and is configured to absorb an analyte
Implementation Method 2
The flow of fluid along the fluid path from the first end to the second end causes absorbed analyte to be desorbed from the solid sorbent at a desired concentration to the instrument
Data Source
AI summary
A system for solventless calibration of volatile or semi-volatile compounds and methods thereof. The system includes a fluid path having a first end configured to be operably coupled to a fluid source and a second end configured to be operably coupled to the analytical instrument. A solid sorbent is disposed along the fluid path and is configured to absorb an analyte. The flow of fluid along the fluid path from the first end to the second end causes absorbed analyte to be desorbed from the solid sorbent at a desired concentration to the instrument.