Microwave assisted chemical synthesis instrument with controlled pressure release

A method of carrying out microwave-assisted chemical reactions the method comprising:

• adding reagents to a plurality of microwave-transparent vessels;
• securing each of the vessels against pressure release with a seal;
• thereafter inserting a needle through the seal of a first of the vessels and into the pressure-secured vessel to provide fluid communication to the interior of the sealed vessel through the needle without permanently breaching the seal;
• irradiating the vessel and its contents with microwaves while monitoring the pressure inside and temperature of the vessel;
• moderating the application of microwaves to the vessel in response to the monitored temperature and pressure;
• communicating with a fluid between the interior of the sealed vessel and its ambient surroundings without otherwise breaching the seal;
• controlling the pressure within the vessel by carrying out a step selected from the group consisting of releasing pressure from the vessel, adding gases to the vessel or adding liquids to the vessel;
• removing the needle from the first vessel following the irradiation and moderating steps and without permanently breaching the seal of the vessel;
• and
• repeating the inserting, irradiating, monitoring, moderating, communicating, controlling and removing steps for the second and successive vessels of the plurality of vessels.