Agilent Technologies, Inc.
MULTIDIMENSIONAL SAMPLE SEPARATION WITH PRESSURE ADJUSTMENT

Abstract:

A multidimensional sample separation apparatus includes a first separation dimension for separating a fluidic sample, a second separation dimension for further separating the fluidic sample, a switching mechanism, and a control unit. The first separation dimension includes a first fluid drive unit and a first sample separation unit. The second separation dimension includes a second fluid drive unit for driving the separated fluidic sample, and second and third sample separation units each configured for further separating the separated fluidic sample. The switching mechanism is configured for selectively switching an outlet of the first separation dimension in fluid communication with a selected one of the second sample separation unit and/or the third sample separation unit. The control unit is configured for controlling a pressure at inlets of the second sample separation unit and the third sample separation unit to be substantially the same at least at the time of the switching.