A Disposable Liquid Microcell for Near-Infrared Reflectance Analysis

While near-infrared reflectance instruments are best known for their ability to rapidly analyze powdered solid samples, some manufacturers have provided the means to measure liquid samples as well. Unfortunately, liquid-analysis accessories are often cumbersome and expensive. A typical accessory requires a relatively large volume of the sample (on the order of milliliters) and complex purge/fill and wash cycles to prevent clogging. If clogging does occur, cleaning can be difficult. The thermostatically controlled heating cycle only adds to a total analysis time already extended by the other operations.