Method and apparatus for demolding and analyzing a direct analysis sample

An apparatus for demolding and analyzing a direct analysis sample formed within a sample chamber assembly from a molten metal material, wherein the sample chamber assembly comprises a sample housing, a cover plate, and a closing mechanism holding the sample housing and the cover plate together, the apparatus comprising:

• a cabinet defining an interior and comprising at least one opening for the sample housing to enter the cabinet, and a sample analyzer located inside the cabinet for analyzing an analysis surface of the direct analysis sample;
• a demolding mechanism adapted to engage the closing mechanism and to remove at least the closing mechanism from the sample housing and the cover plate to expose at least part of the analysis surface of the direct analysis sample;
• and
• a transporting mechanism adapted to hold and transport the sample housing at least between a sample demolding position, where the closing mechanism is removed from the sample chamber assembly by the demolding mechanism, and a sample analysis position, where the analysis surface of the sample contained within the sample housing is analyzed by the sample analyzer, and wherein the sample demolding position and the sample analysis position are different from each other.