Element, structure and method for the analysis or transport of liquids

Abstract

An element for the analysis or transport of liquid, especially aqueous liquids, contains a structure comprising a plurality of heat-stable, organo-polymeric particles non-swellable in and impermeable to the liquid, and an adhesive concentrated at particle surface areas contiguous to adjacent particles bonding the particles into a coherent, three-dimensional lattice that is non-swellable in the liquid. A substantial portion of the particle surface area in this lattice structure is therefore effectively free from adhesive. The lattice structure has interconnected void spaces among the particles representing a total void volume of about 25 to 80 percent to provide for transport of the liquid. The adhesive comprises an organic polymer different from that of the particles and insoluble in the liquid under analysis. The amount of adhesive in the structure is less than 10 weight percent of the particles. The particulate structure of these elements can contain interactive compositions useful for the analysis of various substances in liquids, especially high molecular weight proteinaceous substances in aqueous biological liquids. Multi-zone elements containing, in fluid contact, at least two zones having a particulate structure as described above or one such zone together with other functional zones are also disclosed.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.