Single reaction interface in flow analysis

Abstract

The dual or multiple reaction interface concept, commonly associated to the distinct flow techniques, was replaced by a single interface concept, which do not no rely on the utilisation of a well-defined and compelling sample volume but only on mutual penetration of sample and reagent zones at a single reaction interface where both sample and reagent met together prior to detection. In the proposed approach basic principles of flow analysis, such as controlled dispersion and reaction zone formation, are not influenced by sample and reagent volumes but determined exclusively by the extension of the overlap of two adjoining quasi-infinite zones enhanced by multiple flow reversals and the pulsed nature of the flowing streams. The detector is positioned at the core of the flow manifold (not in the conventional terminal position), and repetitive flow reversals enable interface manipulations, including multi-detection of the entire reaction interface or the monitoring of the evolution of a pre-selected interface zone by using suitable reversal cycle times. The implementation of the developed approach was facilitated due to the configuration simplicity and operational versatility of multi-pumping flow systems. Its performance was evaluated by monitoring processes involving two or four-solution reaction interfaces.