摘要 |
In a system for analyzing a chemical sample by chromatographic separation of said sample into components a method and apparatus are provided for heating the mobile phase to a desired temperature prior to exiting the restrictor, while maintaining the density of the mobile phase at a desired level. Such heating and density maintenance being provided by the combination of a restrictor having a minimal taper length and a temperature zone immediately prior to the outlet end of the restrictor, which temperature zone has a minimum length. A second temperature zone spaced upstream from the first zone, and an intermediate thermally conductive member between the first and second zones can be provided as an alternative embodiment for establishing a thermal gradient. As the mobile phase passes through the second zone, the intermediate conductive member, and the first zone, the mobile phase is subjected to a thermal gradient.
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