Flow cells utilizing photometric techniques

A method of determining sample composition through radiant energy interaction, comprising:

• (a) providing a cell body having an open bore extending therethrough;
• (b) providing multiple distinct layers of material lining said open bore including a first inner layer, a second layer disposed substantially concentrically around said first inner layer, and a third layer disposed substantially concentrically around said second layer;
• (c) attaching first and second end caps to said cell body, said end caps including protrusions extending therefrom, wherein said protrusions extend at least partially into said open bore in said cell body such that a fluid-tight seal is formed thereat, said protrusions being shaped as conical frustums and being positioned to displace respective portions of said third layer, thereby forming a fluid-tight seal between said third layer and said conical frustum protrusions, said end caps further including one or more open channels in substantial alignment with said open bore;
• (d) transporting sample fluid and radiant energy through said open bore such that the radiant energy passes through the sample fluid;
• and
• (e) receiving and interpreting the radiant energy that has passed through the sample fluid.

A flow Cell for transporting fluid in a radiant energy field, comprising:

• (a) a cell structure having a first open channel therein, said first open channel forming a continuous passageway through said cell structure;
• (b) a first material layer disposed substantially concentrically about said first open channel;
• (c) a first end cap that is sealingly engageable with a first end of said cell structure, said first end cap having a second open channel substantially aligned with said first open channel to extend the continuous passageway through said first end cap;
• and
• (d) a second end cap sealingly engageable with a second end of said cell structure, said second end cap having a third open channel substantially aligned with said first open channel so as to extend the continuous passageway through said second end cap, said second end cap being adjustably positioned in calibrated increments with respect to said first open channel so as to create a predetermined adjustable gap volume in between said second end cap and said first material layer and within said for fluid residence therein, such that radiant energy losses may be standardized in respective flow cells transporting fluids having various indexes of refraction.