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Methods for sampling a liquid flow

  • US 8,524,506 B2
  • Filed: 11/07/2007
  • Issued: 09/03/2013
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/24/2002
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A method for sampling a liquid flow, comprising the steps of:

  • (a) supplying a continuous liquid flow from a continuous flow fluid input source to a surface along a first flow path; and

    (b) sampling the continuous liquid flow by performing an electric field-based technique to split off a sample droplet from a portion of the liquid flow, whereby the sample droplet is distinct from the liquid flow and controllable independently of the liquid flow, wherein the electric field-based technique is performed by providing a set of drive electrodes on the surface and selectively biasing the set of drive electrodes at an actuation potential, whereby the sample droplet is formed on one of the set of drive electrodes and remains in contact with a reference electrode present on the surface and set at a potential that is lower than the actuation potential, during the droplet formation process.

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