Preconcentrator for analysis instruments

An interchangeable preconcentrator assembly for delivering analyte to an analysis instrument comprising:

• housing means for defining a chamber, an inlet to the chamber, a first fluid flow path leading away from the analysis instrument, and a second fluid flow path leading to the analysis instrument;
• means for accommodating at least one preconcentrator chip disposed within chamber;
• means for selectively directing fluid flow from the chamber to either the first fluid flow path or the second fluid flow path;
• and
• means for mechanically biasing said at least one preconcentrator chip toward a surface of said housing means;
• wherein said means for accommodating comprise first and second plates at least partially enclosing said chip, said first plate having an opening for allowing fluid flow to said preconcentrator chip.

A method for preconcentrating an analyte in fluid/air and selectively delivering the preconcentrated analyte to an analysis instrument, the method comprising:

• delivering the fluid/air containing the analyte to a plurality of micropreconcentrators disposed within an inner chamber defined by a housing and urged against a surface of said housing by a mechanically biased urging member, while a valve seals the inner chamber from a second fluid flow path in the housing leading to the analysis instrument to permit a first fluid flow path from the inner chamber away from the analysis instrument;
• heating the micropreconcentrators;
• and
• selectively operating the valve to permit the first fluid flow path and close the second fluid flow path.