Methods and apparatus for low-volatility sampling

Abstract

Molecular rotational resonance (MRR) spectroscopy is a structurally-specific, high-resolution spectroscopy technique that can provide accurate reaction process data with finer time resolution than existing techniques. It is the only analytical technique that can make online chiral composition measurements. This makes it especially useful for online reaction monitoring, which is done today by manually pulling off samples and measuring samples offline and takes 3-4 hours per measurement. Conversely, an MRR spectrometer can resolve isomers in about 10 minutes when fed with a low-volatility sampling interface that connects directly to the reaction line. The sampling interface measures a precise sample of the reaction solution, boils off the solvent to concentrate the analyte, volatilizes the analyte, and injects the volatilized analyte into the MRR spectrometer's measurement chamber for an MRR measurement. The sample concentration and volatilization happen quickly and without any extra sample preparation.

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