SOLUTION DRYING SYSTEM

摘要

A system for drying chemical reagents on material, particularly for produci ng product used in making reagent test strips is described. By drying selected chemicals on substrate drawn past a radiant energy source (preferably an IR source), rapi d drying may be achieved while obtaining high-quality product. Airflow sufficient to break o r disturb a vapor boundary layer above drying solution may be provided to increase drying speeds. Any airflow provided should not disturb the surface of the solution. Still, air- impingement drying techniques may be employed in the system to finish drying reagent material once it is sufficiently dry to be stable in shape. The substrate upon which chemicals a re dried may include a reflective coating to facilitate its use with high levels of radia nt energy. A metallic or metalized substrate is advantageously used in producing electrochemical test strips. Such test strips may be used in conjunction with various kits and be conveniently read using known hand-held meters.