Solid Phase Extraction Disk Layered Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solid phase extraction (SPE) disks face issues with structural integrity and sorbent particle shedding, which can interfere with analytical processes, and lack efficient methods for determining the chemical identity and concentration of non-analyte chemical constituents.
Innovation Solution
The SPE disks are constructed with a layered structure featuring glass fiber mesh or filter paper at the bottom, a glass fiber and sorbent middle layer, and a glass fiber top layer, with the filter paper extending to form a cylindrical side to enhance structural integrity and encapsulate sorbent particles, preventing shedding and improving analyte retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional SPE disk construction is used, then the disk can perform basic filtration, but the structural integrity is poor and sorbent particles shed during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The SPE disk is divided into distinct functional layers: a support layer (filter paper or mesh), a sorbent layer (containing the active sorbent material), and a barrier layer (porous membrane). This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally while working together to prevent sorbent shedding and maintain structural integrity during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite material construction by combining different materials with complementary properties: filter paper or mesh for structural support, sorbent material for analyte retention, and porous membrane for filtration and barrier functions. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by integrating materials that collectively provide both structural integrity and prevent sorbent particle shedding.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the filter paper extends up the cylindrical side to enhance structural integrity, then the structural stability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter paper or mesh serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, acts as a barrier to prevent sorbent shedding, and maintains the cylindrical shape of the disk. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby maintaining simplicity while achieving structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of flexible filter paper or mesh that can be folded or extended to form the cylindrical side structure provides both structural integrity and ease of manufacturing. This thin film approach allows the filter material to conform to the disk shape and provide structural support without adding significant complexity to the construction.
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
This construction enhances the structural integrity of the SPE disks, reduces sorbent particle shedding, and increases the capacity to retain both polar and non-polar analytes, allowing for more accurate analytical chemistry procedures without interfering with existing SPE apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
a glass fiber and sorbent layer in forming the middle layer
Implementation Method 2
a piece of glass fiber mesh or filter paper forming the bottom layer
Data Source
AI summary
Solid phase extraction (SPE) disks are manufactured by introducing a series of components and/or liquid suspensions into a mold and evacuating the liquid to form a cohesive filter or SPE disk. After all the free liquid has been substantially removed, the SPE disk is removed from the mold and dried. SPE disks are for use in analytical chemistry procedures.