| abstract |
A low power preconcentrator for use in micro gas analysis, such as gas chromatography, and a system that employs the preconcentrator is disclosed. The preconcentrator includes a reservoir that comprises a heater membrane and elements coated at least partially with an adsorbent, and ports for receiving and discharging an analyte in communication with the reservoir. At least a portion of the reservoir (e.g., a cap) is made of a material having a thermal conductivity less than about 100 W/(m·K) and/or the heater membrane is made of a material that has a temperature difference less than about 75° C. when heated. The present invention has been described in terms of specific embodiment(s), and it is recognized that equivalents, alternatives, and modifications, aside from those expressly stated, are possible and within the scope of the appending claims. |