Method and apparatus for the wet digestion of organic and biological samples
US4080168A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 18, 1976 |
| Grant date | Mar 21, 1978 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 18, 1996 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/25125
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A rapid, safe and efficient process for the digestion and destruction of organic matter in materials of biological origin. Acid mixtures (nitric and perchloric acids for ashing; appropriate acid mixtures for other digestions) are added to the sample and then heated internally by absorption of microwave energy from a precisely controlled field within a specially modified microwave oven. Apparatus used for the digestions include a microwave oven equipped with an internal, acid-fume resistant box or liner, a positive flow ventilation system through the box, and an acid-fume trap or scrubber for treating the exhaust fumes from the box. Additional apparatus includes a precise timing system for controlling the delivery of microwave energy, or an interrupted duty cycle timing system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.