Planar Separation Column for Use in Sample Analysis System

The present invention relates generally to miniaturized planar device technology for liquid and gas phase analysis. More particularly, the invention relates to a planar separation column for use in a sample analysis system.

In sample analysis instrumentation, and especially in separation systems such as gas or liquid chromatography and capillary electrophoresis systems, smaller dimensions will generally result in improved performance characteristics and at the same time result in reduced production and analysis costs. In this regard, miniaturized planar devices provide more effective system design and result in lower overhead due to decreased instrumentation sizing. Additionally, miniaturized planar devices enable increased speed of analysis, decreased sample and solvent consumption and the possibility of increased detection efficiency.

Several approaches towards miniaturization have developed in the art. The conventional approach provides etched planar devices on glass, silica, metal, or ceramic substrates of moderately small size. For example, planar devices may be etched in a wafer that receives a superimposed cover plate. In some approaches, certain fluid handling functions have not been integrated in the planar device and accordingly must be effected by use of conventional devices, such as fused silica capillary tubing, that are attached to the planar device. More recent approaches have used micromachining of silicon substrates and laser ablation of organic nonmetallic substrates to provide structures of much smaller size (i.e., microstructures) on the substrate. For example, there has been a trend towards providing planar systems having capillary separation microstructures. See, for example: Karasek, U.S. Pat. No. 3,538,744; Terry et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,474,889; Goedert, U.S. Pat. No. 4,935,040; Sethi et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,891,120; Shindo et al, U.S. Pat. No. 4,905,497; Miura et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,132,012. See, also, attempts at miniaturization with respect to: gas chromatography (Widmer et al. (1984) Int. J. Environ. Anal. Chem. 18:1), high pressure liquid chromatography (Muller et al. (1991) J. High Resolut. Chromatogr. 14:174; Manz et al. (1990) Sensors & Actuators B1:249; Novotny et al., eds. (1985) Microcolumn Separations: Columns, Instrumentation and Ancillary Techniques (J. Chromatogr. Library, Vol. 30); Kucera, ed. (1984) Micro-Column High Performance Liquid Chromatography, Elsevier, Amsterdam; Scott, ed. (1984) Small Bore Liquid Chromatography Columns: Their Properties and Uses, Wiley, N.Y.; Jorgenson et al. (1983) J. Chromatogr. 255:335; Knox et al. (1979) J. Chromatogr. 186:405; Tsuda et al. (1978) Anal. Chem. 50:632) and capillary electrophoresis (Manz et al. (1992) J. Chromatogr. 593:253; Manz et al. Trends Anal. Chem. 10:144; Olefirowicz et al. (1990) Anal. Chem. 62:1872; Second Int'l Symp. High-Perf. Capillary Electrophoresis (1990) J. Chromatogr. 516; Ghowsi et al. (1990) Anal. Chem. 62:2714.

Micromachining techniques applied to silicon utilize a number of established techniques developed by the microelectronics industry involving micromachining of planar materials, such as silicon. Micromachining silicon substrates to form miniaturized separation systems generally involves a combination of film deposition, photolithography, etching and bonding techniques to fabricate three-dimensional microstructures. Silicon provides a useful substrate in this regard since it exhibits high strength and hardness characteristics and can be micromachined to provide structures having dimensions in the order of a few micrometers. Examples of the use of micromachining techniques to produce miniaturized separation devices on silicon or borosilicate glass chips can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,194,133 to Clark et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,132,012 to Miura et al.; in U.S. Pat. No. 4,908,112 to Pace; and in U.S. Pat. No. 4,891,120 to Sethi et al.; Fan et al., Anal. Chem. 66(1):177-184 (1994); Manz et al., Adv. Chrom. 33:1-66 (1993); Harrison et al., Sens. Actuators, B10(2): 107-116 (1993); Manz et al., Trends Anal. Chem. 10 (5): 144-149 (1991); and Manz et al., Sensors and Actuators B (Chemical) B1 (1-6): 249-255 (1990).

A drawback in the silicon micromachining approach to miniaturization involves the chemical activity and chemical instability of silicon dioxide (SiO.sub.2) substrates, such as silica, quartz or glass, which are commonly used in systems for both capillary electrophoresis (CE) and chromatographic analysis systems. More particularly, silicon dioxide substrates are characterized as high energy surfaces and strongly adsorb many compounds, most notably bases. The use of silicon dioxide materials in separation systems is further restricted due to the chemical instability of those substrates, as the dissolution of SiO.sub.2 materials increases in basic conditions (at pH greater than 7.0).

Accordingly, Kaltenbach et al., in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,500,071, and Swedberg et al., in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,571,410 disclose a miniaturized total analysis system comprising a miniaturized planar column device for use in a liquid phase analysis system. The miniaturized column device is provided in a substantially planar substrate, wherein the substrate is comprised of a material selected to avoid the inherent chemical activity and pH instability encountered with silicon and prior silicon dioxide-based device substrates. More specifically, a miniaturized planar column device is provided by ablating component microstructures in a substrate using laser radiation. The miniaturized column device is described as being formed by providing two substantially planar halves having microstructures thereon, which, when the two halves are folded upon each other, define a sample processing compartment featuring enhanced symmetry and axial alignment.

However, although the foregoing techniques are useful in the fabrication of miniaturized planar devices for effecting fluid handling functions in sample analysis systems, there are significant disadvantages to the prior art approaches. One significant problem remains in providing exact alignment of complementary pairs of microstructures that are respectively provided in a planar substrate and its cover plate, or in a pair of planar substrates, when such microstructures are intended to be superimposed so as to subsequently be capable of performing a fluid handling function in a unitary assembly.

For some applications, prior art planar technology has not produced a sufficient degree of alignment between the superimposed microstructures. For example, and with reference to FIG. 1A, first and second substrates 51, 52 are each shown to include spaced channels 53, 54 that are etched or otherwise formed in respective surfaces 55, 56. Superposition and appropriate bonding of the surfaces 55, 56 is intended to result in exact alignment of the channels 53, 54 such that respective fluid handling channels 61-65 are created, each of which are intended to exhibit a uniform, consistent cross-section along the major axis of the channel. However, and as illustrated, the shortcomings of the prior art result in channels on one substrate that are subject to variation in their location with respect to their complementary channels on a second, complementary substrate, thus evidencing misalignment of the channels when the substrates are superimposed. The misalignment is sufficient such that the resulting conduits (such as conduits 62-64) are subject to substantial irregularity, and in extreme cases (such as exemplified by conduit portions 65, 66) the channels are not fully integrated.

As shown in FIG. 1B, first and second substrates 71, 72 are each shown to include spaced channels 73, 74 that are etched or otherwise formed in respective surfaces 75, 76 by conventional techniques. Superimposition and appropriate bonding of the surfaces 75, 76 may succeed in adequate alignment of the channels 73, 74 such that respective fluid handling conduits 81-83 are created. However, deficiencies in many of the conventional techniques for forming the channels 73, 74 can result in edge effects and other asperities that create undesirable defects 78 in the channels 81-83. These defects 78 retard fluid flow and create localized reservoirs of fluid; accordingly, the defects 78 degrade the efficiency and uniformity of fluid flowing in the channels 81-83; the defects 78 also degrade the separation efficiency of a channel that is used to construct a separation column.

Another significant problem arises in the attempt to effect hermetic sealing of the superimposed surfaces 75, 76. This step is generally carried out using adhesives which may not fully isolate the conduits 81-83, thus resulting in cross-conduit leakage. Conventional surface bonds may be prone to failure, leakage, or to degradation induced by adverse conditions, such as high temperature environments, or by the destructive nature of certain gases or liquids that may be present in the channels.

Further, silicon substrates, and most ablatable materials such as polyimides, do not offer a sufficient combination of thermal and mechanical characteristics that otherwise would make the substrate as useful in certain applications as the named alternative materials. For instance, silicon materials are not ductile and cannot be folded, shaped, etc.; ablatable materials exhibit a low coefficient of thermal conductivity and are not susceptible to rapid and uniform heating or cooling, nor do they offer sufficient strength or ductility such that an ablatable substrate may be configured as a connecting member, housing, or support for other components in a sample analysis system. Furthermore, ablatable materials are expressly selected for their propensity to ablate upon the application of heat, and thus are not considered to be as robust and impervious to adverse (e.g., high-temperature) environments in comparison to metals and metal alloys.

The present invention relates to an multilayer, integrated planar column assembly (hereinafter, "integrated assembly") for use in a gas or liquid phase sample analysis system. The invention concerns formation of miniaturized column devices using etching in a metallic or metal alloy substrate.

In one aspect of the invention, an integrated assembly useful in, e.g., sample analysis systems, may be constructed according to the invention wherein complementary microstructures are formed by an etching or similar process in a planar substrate. Accordingly, the complementary microstructures may be superimposed in a controlled manner by operation of micro-alignment means also formed in the substrate by an etching or similar process. Microstructures are contemplated as including channels (that may be superimposed to form fluid conduits), apertures, conduit apertures, sample processing compartments, and the like. The resulting integrated assembly may be operated to implement one or more fluid-handling functions.

It is a primary feature of the present invention to construct the integrated assembly from a planar substrate having at least first and second component sections separated by a linear fold means, wherein said substrate is comprised of a material that is ductile in the region of the linear fold means and substantially inextensible in the regions defined by the component sections. The preferred substrate material also exhibits appropriate thermal and mechanical characteristics such that the component sections of the substrate may be superimposed by folding the substrate at the linear fold means; then bonded and optionally shaped to provide a unitary assembly having a useful configuration.

More specifically, it is contemplated herein to provide the integrated assembly by etching complementary microstructures in the planar substrate prior to folding by using conventional photolithography and etching techniques. In the preferred embodiment, an integrated assembly is formed by providing a planar substrate having at least first and second adjacent component sections having a respective first and second complementary microstructures etched thereon. The adjacent component sections are separated by a linear fold means (also, preferably, provided in the substrate during the provision of the microstructures) and extend transversely from a fold axis defined by the linear fold means. The planar substrate is composed of a ductile material in the immediate vicinity of the linear fold means, yet is generally inextensible in the component sections, such that the two adjacent component sections may be superimposed by folding the component sections upon each other about the fold axis. Upon superimposition of the component sections, the first and second complementary microstructures are precisely co-located and superimposed. The fold means constrains the co-location of the microstructures with extreme accuracy due to the inextensibility of the substrate with respect to the fold axis. Thus the complementary microstructures are joined with precise alignment.

In another aspect of the invention, a specialized intermediary substrate may be interposed between the mating surfaces.

In another aspect of the invention, a particularly preferred multilayer integrated assembly includes n component sections and (n-1) linear fold means, wherein n equals three or more, wherein the component sections are closed upon one another in a Z-fold configuration upon performing a folding action along the (n-1) fold axes of said (n-1) linear fold means.

In another aspect of the present invention, the preferred substrate materials are especially susceptible to subsequent bonding of the component sections via diffusion bonding to provide a unitary integrated assembly. A preferred diffusion bonding process in this invention contemplates the step of initially electroplating the surfaces to be joined with a very thin surface layer. The integrated assembly is then heated in vacuum to a bonding temperature above the liquidus temperature of the nickel-base surface layer on the component sections being bonded. At this temperature the surface layer melts and a thin layer of liquid alloy wets and fills the gaps and other asperities between the two mating surfaces. The flow of the surface layer in its molten state during the joining operation allows the component sections to be bonded in such a way as to correct the irregularities, asperities, or other possible deleterious structural aspects in the mating surfaces. In particular, such flow will correct many of the defects that may be present in the interface of complementary microstructures, thus rendering the microstructures more useful.

In the practice of the invention, a preferred substrate material comprises a metal or metal alloy, such as steel and especially stainless steel. Further, the preferred substrate may be produced in long plates. A removable support means situated at the sides of the substrate may be provided to accurately and securely transport the substrate through a manufacturing process and easily allow batch mode processing of plural component sections on a single substrate.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, channels of a semi-circular cross section are etched by controlling the etch process. Accordingly, when a corresponding semi-circular channel is aligned with a channel thus formed, a fluid-handling structure of highly symmetrical circular cross-section is defined which may be desirable for enhanced fluid flow through, for example, a fluid circuit in a sample processing or sample analysis system.

In another aspect of the invention, an integrated assembly may Be provided in the form of a miniaturized planar separation column device using the aforementioned etching and bonding techniques applied to a suitable metal or metal alloy substrate.

It is a further related aspect of the present invention to provide a sample analysis system featuring an integrated assembly for effecting fluid handling tasks, including sample injection, separation, and detection. Further provided are means to interface the integrated assembly with a variety of external fluid handling functional devices.

Use of a linear fold means in a foldable substrate material to form the integrated assembly affords several advantages over prior etching, ablation, and micromachining techniques used to form microstructures for fluid handling systems. The application of computerized control over the lithographic process allows the fold means to define, with great precision, a fold axis that is located equidistant from the complementary microstructures, thereby enabling a heightened degree of alignment of the complementary microstructures when the assembly is integrated by superimposing and bonding the component sections.

An intermediary substrate is contemplated as being a useful addition to the integrated assembly so as to provide a useful characteristic that differs from the characteristics in substrate used to provide the foldable substrate. Accordingly, a intermediary substrate may be included to expand the functionality of the integrated assembly. In addition, the intermediary substrate may offer a surface treatment, structure, or function that is difficult or impractical to provide in the substrate but which can be effectively provided in the material used to fabricate the intermediary substrate.

In another advantage of the invention, bonding of the superimposed component sections is preferably accomplished by use of a diffusion bonding technique. In a particular embodiment of the preferred diffusion bonding process, the diffusion bonding is effected utilizing a thin alloy plated layer which melts at the desired diffusion bonding temperature, forming a transient liquid phase that is interposed in the interface of the abutted surfaces of the component sections. The transient liquid phase subsequently re-solidifies at temperature as a result of constituent interdiffusion. Continued heat treatment may be employed to provide a homogeneous solid-state diffusion bond. The flow of the surface layer in its molten state during the joining operation allows the component sections to be be bonded in such a way as to correct the irregularities, asperities, or other possible deleterious structural aspects in the mating surfaces. In particular, such flow will correct many of the defects that may be present in the interface of complementary microstructures, thus rendering the microstructures more useful.

In particular, the preferred diffusion bonding process for the integrated assembly may be understood to include heating the assembly in a vacuum (approximately 10.sup.-5 torr) to the desired bonding temperature above the liquidus temperature of the nickel-base surface layer on the component sections being bonded (typically in the range of 900-1000 degree(s) F.) At this temperature the surface layer melts and a thin layer of liquid alloy wets and fills the gaps and other asperities (see, for example, FIG. 1B) between the two mating surfaces. While the assembly is held at temperature, rapid diffusion of certain alloying elements occurs between the molten alloy and the base metal, resulting in a compositional change at the joint. This change raises the local melting point and causes the joint to isothermally solidify thus creating the initial bond. Upon completion of the initial isothermal solidification (typically in 1-3 hours), the joint microstructure resembles that of the base metal except for some compositional and structural heterogeneity. Additional steps may optionally be employed in continuation of the heat treatment at temperature for a time sufficient to completely homogenize the joint region so that, ultimately, it reaches a composition corresponding or at least closely equivalent to the base metal, although a separate and distinct subsequent heat treatment may be utilized. After completion of the bonding process, the bonded assembly can then be given whatever further heat treatments are required for strengthening or in fulfillment of coating requirements.

The preferred diffusion bonding process of this invention contemplates initially electroplating the surfaces to be joined with a very thin nickel-base surface layer, that is, a layer of nickel, nickel-phosphorous, or a nickel-cobalt alloy.

In a particular advantage of the invention, the flow of the surface layer in its molten state during the joining operation allows parts of complex geometry to be bonded in such a way as to correct the irregularities, asperities, or other possible deleterious structural aspects in the mating surfaces. Such flow will correct many of the defects that may be present in the interface of complementary microstructures, thus rendering the microstructure more useful.

Preferably the surface layer is composed of an alloy that is formulated to melt at a temperature at which the base metal (in the foldable substrate) can be exposed without deleterious effect but must be such that, in terms of composition and thickness, solidification will occur at temperature, and chemical and microstructural homogeneity may be achieved in a practical processing time. Various melting point depressants such as phosphorous, boron, silicon, manganese, columbium and titanium are possible. Several combinations of these elements with nickel produce surface layers with satisfactory melting points. However, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,678,570, some depressants except boron may produce unwanted stable phases at the joint interface.

Satisfactory bonds have been obtained between component sections in a foldable substrate formed of 316L stainless steel utilizing the foregoing process parameters and a surface layer of nickel-phosphorous alloy on the component sections. The resulting bond lines were found to be nearly indistinguishable; more importantly, the asperities in the edges at joints between superimposed channels were filled and accordingly indistinguishable, even after transversely sectioning the integrated assembly and subjecting the sectioned channels to microscopic analysis.

In another advantage of the invention, the integrated assembly will be seen to facilitate reliable connections between external fluid-handling functional devices (such as fittings, valves, sensors, and the like) by use of a single planar device for the provision of a plurality of flow paths. The fluid-handling functional devices that connect to the integrated assembly are preferably constructed to be surface-mounted, which has been found to offer reliable, fluid-tight connection without the complexity and difficulty of conventional connections. The number and complexity of external connections, which would otherwise undesirably increase the volume of the flow system, are also decreased. Another advantage is that the reliability of the fluid-bearing connections is improved.

A further advantage of the present invention is that an integrated assembly and multiple fluid-handling functional devices may be coordinated and assembled in a smaller volume than is possible in prior art systems. This results from the pneumatic channels that are integrated in the integrated assembly, and thus many of the fluid flow paths are integral to the integrated assembly, which is itself quite compact and amenable to construction in a variety of shapes and configurations. For example, it is contemplated that the integrated assembly may be constructed in an irregular shape, such as a curved, bent, or angled configuration, so as to conform to an irregularly-shaped, compact volume.

A large number of fluid-handling functional paths may be integrated into the integrated assembly that heretofore would be difficult if not impossible to assemble using traditional tubular pipe, ferrules, and manual fittings. Also, considerable cost savings and improved reliability are realized by reduction of the number of connections necessary to achieve multiple flow paths.

The surface-mounted pneumatic connections provided by the invention also reduce the complexity of a flow system, which is desirable during the stages of manufacturing, assembly, repair, or modification of the analytical instrument in which the integrated assembly may be situated.

A particular advantage of the present invention is the use of processes other than silicon micromachining techniques or etching techniques to create microstructures in a metallic or metal alloy substrates having desirable attributes for an analysis portion of a sample analysis system. The use of conventional etching processes to form microstructures in the preferred substrate materials, such as metal alloys, increases the ease of fabrication and lowers the per-unit manufacturing costs in the subject devices as compared to prior approaches, such as micromachining devices in silicon. The integrated assembly is robust (e.g., exhibits an ability to withstand adverse environments, mishandling, and operation at elevated temperature), is easily cooled or heated, and is sufficiently strong and rigid so as to serve as a connecting member, support member, chassis, housing, or the like. In this regard, devices formed according to the invention in the preferred substrates have the added feature of being robust yet quite inexpensive, and thus capable of use as substantially disposable miniaturized assemblies.

In another aspect of the instant invention, formation of the integrated assembly in the preferred substrate material allows for configuration of the integrated assembly in almost any geometry or shape. This feature not only enables the formation of complex device configurations, but further allows for integration of sample preparation, sample injection, post-column reaction, and sample detection means in a miniaturized sample analysis system having greatly reduced overall dimensions. The compact nature of the analysis portion in a system produced under to the present invention, in conjunction with the feature that integral functions such as injection, sample handling and detection may be specifically engineered into the subject device to provide a sample analysis device, further allows for an improvement in the degree of system integration, thus also accomplishing an inexpensive miniaturized system.

In this regard, a miniaturized analytical system constructed according to the present invention is capable of performing complex sample handling, separation, and detection methods with reduced attention by an operator.

Provision of a modular device that includes inlet and detection means integrated with an integrated assembly enables enhanced on-column analysis or detection of components in a sample. The integrated assembly is provided in the form of a miniaturized planar separation column device, and the integrated assembly has mounted thereon associated fluid-handling functional devices, such as inlet means, valve means, detection means, and temperature control means. The resulting planar module is useful in a novel sample analysis system that occupies a more compact volume as compared to sample analysis systems constructed according to conventional technology.

Accordingly, the subject invention finds potential application in monitoring and/or analysis of components in chemical, biological, biochemical, pharmaceutical, and medical processes and the like.

FIGS. 1A and 1B are simplified, side sectional views of a planar device incorporating fluid channels that is constructed in accordance with the prior art.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional axial view of channels formed by the alignment of complementary microstructures via closure of first and second component sections in a first embodiment of a foldable substrate, whereby closure provides an integrated assembly constructed according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a preferred embodiment of the foldable substrate of FIG. 2, prior to closure, illustrating first and second complementary microstructures in respective component sections and having linear fold means situated between first and second component sections,.

FIG. 4 is a pictorial representation of the foldable substrate of FIG. 3 showing the linear fold means in operation during closure of the component sections.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the foldable substrate of FIGS. 3 and 4 during closure, but with the addition of a specialized intermediary substrate.

FIG. 6A is a pictorial representation of a first side of a second preferred embodiment of a foldable substrate constructed according to the present invention and which includes a plurality of three or more component sections so as to effect a Z-fold configuration.

FIG. 6B is a pictorial representation of a second side of the foldable substrate of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7 is plan view of an exterior side, prior to closure, of a third preferred embodiment of a foldable substrate constructed for use as a miniaturized planar fluid manifold according to the invention.

FIG. 8 is a side perspective view of the interior side of the planar fluid manifold of FIG. 7 prior to closure.

FIG. 9 is a side perspective, detailed view of a central portion of the interior side of the planar fluid manifold of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 is plan view of an exterior side, prior to closure, of a fourth preferred embodiment of a foldable substrate constructed for use as a miniaturized planar separation column device constructed according to the invention.

FIG. 11 is a plan view of the interior side, prior to closure, of the planar separation column device of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a side perspective view showing a portion of the planar separation column device of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is another side perspective view showing in detail a portion of the planar separation column device of FIG. 11.

FIGS. 14-16 are representative separation chromatograms recorded during the operation of an experimental version of the embodiment of the planar separation column illustrated in FIGS. 10-13.

FIG. 17-18 are simplified schematic diagrams of an novel sample analysis instrument constructed according to the present invention.

Before the invention is described in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the particular component parts of the devices described or process steps of the methods described, as such devices and methods may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purposes of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "an analyte" includes mixtures of analytes, reference to "a detection means" includes two or more such detection means, reference to "a sample flow component" includes more than one such component, reference to "an on-device fluid reservoir compartment" includes two or more such compartments, and the like. In this specification and in the claims which follow, reference will be made to a number of terms which shall be defined to have the following meanings:

The use of novel construction and assembly techniques in the practice of the invention allows for a high degree of precision in the alignment of surface features other structures, which alignment has either been difficult or not possible in prior substrate-based devices. Thus, the term "microalignment" as used herein refers to precise alignment of structures, microstructures, and other surface features, including: the enhanced alignment of apertures, complementary channels, or compartments with each other; of inlet and/or outlet ports with channels or separation compartments; of detection means with ports, channels or separation compartments; and of detection means with other detection means, and the like. The precision in alignment offered by the practice of the invention is believed to be on the order of less than one micrometer of error. In some instances, the microalignment has been so precise that alignment error is indistinguishable even under microscopic examination of transverse sections of bonded microstructures.

The terms "surface feature" refer to a structural feature on a component section that is distinguishable from the immediately surrounding portion of the component section. Examples of a surface feature include: aperture, recess, perforation, orifice, groove, chamber, compartment, depression, channel, pad, block, protrusion, nipple, and region (especially a region having a surface treatment). Note that the shape, dimensions, and symmetry of the various surface features contemplated herein will vary according to the implementation of the invention.

"Microstructures" refers to surface features in the component sections having dimensions on the order of approximately 5 to 1000 micrometers and may include microchannels, microapertures, depressions, and the like. Microstructures in the form of microchannels of a semi-circular cross section are etched by controlling the etch process. When a first channel is microaligned with a second channel thus formed, a fluid-handling conduit of highly symmetrical circular cross-section is defined which may be desirable for enhanced fluid flow in, for example, a sample processing or sample analysis system. Note that the shape, dimensions, and symmetry of the various microstructures contemplated herein will vary according to the implementation of the invention.

The terms "linear fold means" refer to means for dividing a substrate into at least two component sections whereby the operation of the linear fold means allows microalignment of complementary surface features in the component sections. Linear fold means can be formed in the substrate either by etching or by other methods of fabricating shaped apertures or depressions. Representative linear fold means that can be employed herein include a plurality of co-axially arranged apertures in component parts and/or a plurality of corresponding features in the substrate, e.g., depressions, grooves, slots, tunnels, hollow ridges, or the like. Accurate microalignment of two or more component sections is effected by forming at least one linear fold means provided between adjacent pairs of component sections, such that each pair of the component sections have surfaces that can be folded to overlie each other thereby forming composite micro-scale features such as apertures, compartments, or channels. Such linear fold means is preferably embodied by a row of spaced-apart perforations etched in a particular substrate, or by spaced-apart slot-like depressions or apertures etched so as to extend only part way through the substrate. The perforations or depressions can have circular, diamond, hexagonal or other shapes that promote hinge formation along a predetermined straight line.

The linear fold means preferably includes a "fold relief" which refers to a relief or similar excision of the substrate that facilitates folding of the substrate and the subsequent microalignment of the microstructures while maintaining the inextensibility of the substrate. The fold relief is effective at relieving the stress or deformation induced in the substrate in the immediate area of the fold axis by the folding motion.

The terms "foldable substrate" refer to a substrate which includes linear fold means, at least first and second component sections so defined by the linear fold means, and a characteristic of being foldable about the fold axis such that the substrate material is substantially inextensible in the direction generally transverse to the fold axis. As a result, the microalignment of surface features upon closure of the component sections is maintained due to the lack of extension of the foldable substrate.

The term "substantially inextensible" is used herein to refer to a characteristic physical nature of a foldable substrate material that resists extension from the fold axis when the foldable substrate is subject to the typical forces which it to receive during the assembly and use of an integrated assembly. Accordingly, miniaturized column devices are formed herein using suitable substrates which exhibit inextensibility when folded, such as metals and metal alloy substrates.

The terms "etched" and "etching" refer to surface material removal processes and include machining or cutting processes that provide surface features in a suitable substrate that are comparable to etched features. Etching is a preferred method for forming surface features in a wide variety of geometries. Any geometry which does not include undercutting may be provided using etching techniques. However, other forming methods for providing surface features are also contemplated, such as coining, fine blanking, milling, and abrading (using an abrasive in, e.g., an air or water stream.)

Etching includes such processes as common photolithography. Under the present invention, surface features are formed by imaging a lithographic mask onto a suitable substrate and then etching the substrate in areas that are unprotected by the lithographic mask. Such masks may define all of the etched features for a selected area of the substrate, for example, and the pattern may encompass multiple pairs of component section to be created on the substrate, each of which feature complementary sets of microstructures. Alternatively, individual patterns such as an aperture pattern, a channel pattern, etc., may be placed side by side on a common mask for stepwise exposure of large substrates which are eventually processed to produce a plurality of individual substrates. An etching system employed in the invention generally includes beam delivery optics, alignment optics, a high precision and high speed mask shuttle system, and a processing chamber including mechanism for handling and positioning the substrate material.

"Diffusion bonding" refers to a bonding technique which involves the solid-state movement of the atoms and grain growth across a joint interface. Diffusion bonding provides bonded areas which are practically indistinguishable from the adjacent parent metal even on close metallurgical examination. In this regard, reference may be made to the patent to Owczarski et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,530,568. A particularly preferred technique of diffusion bonding is described herein, wherein the surfaces to be joined are initially electroplated with a very thin surface layer (e.g., approximately 0.0003 inches or less) of nickel, nickel-phosphorous, or a nickel-cobalt alloy. The surface layer is formulated to melt at the desired diffusion bonding temperature, thus forming a transient liquid phase that fills surface defects (irregularities, asperities, and the like) at the interface of the microstructures in the surfaces to be joined. The molten surface layer subsequently re-solidifies, thus eliminating the surface defects.

A "multilayer" integrated assembly refers to an assembly formed from a foldable substrate whereby the component sections are subject to closure so as to form at least two bonded layers. A particularly preferred multilayer integrated assembly includes n component secions and (n-1) linear fold means, wherein n equals three or more, wherein the component sections are closed upon one another in what is referred as a "Z-fold configuration" upon performing a folding action along the (n-1) fold axes of said (n-1) linear fold means.

An "intermediary substrate" refers to an added substrate layer interposed between the first and second component sections prior to closure and bonding of the first and second component sections so as to provide a composite structure. A "laminate" refers to the resulting multilayer structure, that is, a composite structure formed using a bondable intermediary substrate interposed between the first and second component sections. One particularly preferred intermediary substrate comprises an ultrathin plate, thereby providing a means for producing a laminate having layers of differing thicknesses.

The present invention will find particular application in a variety of analytical systems that benefit from an integrated assembly that supports one or more fluid handling functions with respect to one or more fluid streams. Accordingly, the terms "fluid-handling" and "fluid-handling functions" refer to initiation, distribution, redirection, termination, control, detection, analysis, sensing, treatment, and similar functions with respect to one or more fluid streams.

"Sample treatment" refers to sample preparation chemistries. In particular, an analyte of interest is generally obtained in a matrix containing other species which may potentially interfere with the detection and analysis of the analyte. Accordingly, a sample treatment component is a portion of the sample processing compartment in which analyte separation from the matrix is effected. Examples of fluid handling functions which may be served by the sample treatment component include chromatographic separations, electrophoretic separations, electrochromatographic separations, and the like.

"Detection means" refers to means, structure or configuration which is connectable to the integrated assembly and which allows one to interrogate a sample using analytical detection techniques well known in the art. Thus, a detection means may include one or more apertures, elongated apertures or grooves which are made to communicate with the sample processing compartment; alternatively, the sample detection means may include fittings or connections in the integrated assembly that allows an external detection apparatus or device to be interfaced with the sample processing compartment to detect an analyte passing through the compartment.

Changes in the thermal, electrical, or electrochemical properties of a sample passing through the sample processing compartment can be detected using detection means which physically contact the sample passing through the sample processing compartment. In one embodiment, an electrode may be placed within, or butt-coupled to a detection means such as an aperture or a groove, thereby enabling the electrode to directly contact the sample stream. For example, by arranging two electrodes (which are connected through an external conducting circuit) opposite each other relative to the sample processing compartment, an electric field can be generated in the sample processing compartment--transverse to the direction of sample flow--thereby providing a ready means of electrochemical detection of analytes passing through the compartment. Alternatively, detectable changes in the conductivity, permittivity, or both of a particular sample due to the presence of an analyte in the sample can be detected using an electrometer; using a thermal conductivity detector, changes in the thermal properties of a sample passing through the sample processing compartment can be detected.

"Analysis" refers to detecting and analyzing small and/or macromolecular solutes in the gas or liquid phase and may employ chromatographic separation means, electrophoretic separation means, electrochromatographic separation means, or combinations thereof. The terms "gas phase analysis" and "liquid phase analysis" are respectively used to refer to analyses which are done on either small and/or macromolecular solutes in the gas or liquid phase. Accordingly, "analysis" as used herein includes chromatographic separations, electrophoretic separations, and electrochromatographic separations. Integrated assemblies constructed according to the invention are useful in any analysis system for detecting and analyzing small and/or macromolecular solutes in the gas or liquid phase and may employ chromatographic separation means, electrophoretic separation means, electrochromatographic separation means, or combinations thereof. In this regard, "chromatographic" processes generally comprise preferential separations of components, and include reverse-phase, hydrophobic interaction, ion exchange, molecular sieve chromatography and like methods.

"Fluid" refers to both to gases and liquids, and thus to all types of fluids. The following description of the invention will include a description of the arrangement, construction, or operation of certain fluid-handling devices, and hence is particularly directed to the provision of a plurality of gaseous streams in a gas chromatographic analytical system. However, sample analysis systems that are particularly benefited by use of the present invention include supercritical fluid chromatography, high-pressure gas chromatography (HPGC), liquid chromatographs, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), clinical analyzers, flow-injection analyzers, laboratory water purification systems, syringe-type reagent dispensers, manual and automated solid phase extraction (SPE) instruments, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) instruments, spectrophotometers, automated protein or nucleic acid sequencers, and solid phase protein or nucleic acid synthesizers.

"Electrophoretic" separations refers to the migration of particles or macromolecules having a net electric charge where said migration is influenced by an electric field. Accordingly electrophoretic separations contemplated for use in the invention include separations performed in columns packed with gels (such as polyacrylamide, agarose and combinations thereof) as well as separations performed in solution. "Electrochromatographic" separation refers to combinations of electrophoretic and chromatographic techniques.

The term "motive force" is used to refer to any means for inducing movement of a sample along a path in a sample analysis system, and includes application of an electric potential across any portion of the path, application of a pressure differential across any portion of the path, or any combination thereof.

The term "surface treatment" is used to refer to preparation or modification of the surface of a component section, and in particular of a channel which will be in contact with a sample during separation, whereby the characteristics of the surface are altered or otherwise enhanced. Accordingly, "surface treatment" as used herein includes: physical surface coatings such as silication or silane coatings; physical surface adsorptions; covalent bonding of selected moieties to functional groups on the surface of channel substrates; methods of coating surfaces, including dynamic deactivation of channel surfaces, substrate grafting to the surface of channel substrates, and thin-film deposition of materials such as diamond or sapphire to channel substrates.

"Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described feature or structure may or may not be present in the embodiment or that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes both instances where said feature or structure is present and instances where the feature or structure is absent, or instances where the event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

Referring generally to FIGS. 2-13, as will be appreciated by those working in the field of fluid handling devices, the methods described herein may be used to assemble a wide variety of miniaturized integrated assemblies for effecting fluid-handling functions. In the practice of this invention, a first component section may be arranged over a second component section and, in combination with the fold means, and by closure of the component sections, the complementary microstructures superimposed therein will form, e.g., a fixed channel or compartment. According to the invention, the component sections may be sealed together to form a gas- or liquid-tight fluid handling functional device by using known pressure sealing or bonding techniques, by using external means to urge the pieces together (such as clips, tension springs or associated clamping apparatus), or by using adhesives well known in the art of bonding substrates and the like. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the component sections are hermetically sealed and bonded together via diffusion bonding.

It will be readily appreciated that, although a channel may be represented in a generally extended form, channels formed according to the invention may be etched in a large variety of configurations, such as in a straight, serpentine, spiral, or any tortuous path desired. Further, as described in greater detail below, a channel may be formed in a wide variety of channel geometries, including semi-circular, rectangular, rhomboid, and the like, and the channels may be formed in a wide range of aspect ratios. It is also noted that a device having a plurality of channels provided thereon falls within the spirit of the present invention.

Other particular embodiments of the invention further comprise apertures provided so as to communicate with a channel or compartment at a first end thereof to form an inlet port enabling the passage of fluid from an external source into the channel or compartment. A second aperture communicates with the channel or compartment at a second end thereof to form an outlet port enabling passage of fluid from the channel or compartment to an external receptacle. Accordingly, a miniaturized separation column device may be formed having a flow path extending from the first end of the sample processing compartment and passing to the second end thereof, whereby analysis of samples may be carried out using techniques well known in the art. An exemplary device is represented in FIGS. 10-13.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a first embodiment of an integrated assembly for performing one or more of a wide variety of fluid-handling functions is formed as a miniaturized planar device 102 by providing a linear fold means 104 interposed between first and second component halves indicated at 106 and 108 respectively. The support body may comprise a substantially planar foldable substrate such as a metallic plate which is etchable so as to enable the first and second component halves 106 and 108 to each have substantially planar interior surfaces, indicated at 110 and 112 respectively, wherein microstructures and other miniaturized features may be etched. More particularly, a first channel pattern 114 is etched in the first planar interior surface 110 and a second, complementary channel pattern 116 is etched in the second planar interior surface 112. According to the invention, said first and second channel patterns are respectively etched in the first and second component halves 106 and 108 in locations selected according to the location of a fold axis defined by the linear fold means 104, such that the first and second channel patterns are made to be the mirror image of each other about the fold axis. The first and second component halves 106 and 108 are then folded together and diffusion bonded to provide the planar device 102.

Referring now to FIGS. 3-5, a second embodiment of an integrated assembly constructed according to the present invention is provided in the form of a miniaturized planar device 150 and is formed in a foldable substrate 152. The integrated assembly comprises first and second support body halves, indicated at 154 and 156 respectively, each having a substantially planar interior surface indicated at 158 and 160 respectively. The interior surfaces each comprise one or more complementary microstructures, one of which is generally indicated at 162, where the complementary microstructures are arranged to provide the mirror image of one another with respect to a linear fold means in a manner about to be described. Accordingly, in the practice of the invention, the foldable substrate 152 includes means to allow the first and second support body halves 154 and 156 to superimpose upon one another in a way that accurately aligns composite features defined by the microstructures etched on said first and second planar interior surfaces 158 and 160.

The accurate alignment of microstructures and other surface features in the component sections are enabled by forming such microstructures and features in a foldable substrate 152 having at least one linear fold means, generally indicated at 180, such that a first body half 154 may be folded onto a second body half 156. The linear fold means 180 preferably includes a row of spaced-apart perforations located in the foldable substrate 152. Alternatively, the linear fold means may include spaced-apart, slot-like depressions, grooves, or the like etched so as to extend only part way through the foldable substrate. The perforations or depressions may have circular, diamond, hexagonal or other shapes that promote hinge formation along a predetermined, straight line that constitutes the fold axis.

It is contemplated that the linear fold means allows accurate microalignment of features in a consistent, reliable, and simple fashion, merely by folding first body half 154 onto the second body half 156. However, it is further contemplated that some applications may demand the provision of corroboration means for corroborating the successful establishment of microalignment; accordingly, either by etching or by other methods of fabricating, certain shaped features are provided in the first body half 154 and in the second body half 156 that are designed to physically exhibit the degree of alignment precision and are subject to inspection after closure of the foldable substrate 152. More specifically, a plurality of features 164, 170 may be provided in said first and second support body halves 154 and 156 where said features are so arranged such that co-axial alignment thereof enables corroboration of the precise alignment of the support body halves. For example, the features 164, 170 may be through-holes such that alignment may be corroborated using an external apparatus with means (such as light beam) for cooperating with said co-axial apertures to observe the degree of alignment with one another.

Hence in yet another particular embodiment of the invention, corroboration of microalignment is established by examination of the presence of one or more blocks, one of which is formed in the first body half 154 and is indicated at 164, within a complementary window which may be formed in said second support body half 156, one of which is indicated at 170. Accordingly, as is readily apparent, the block 164 and window 170 in the corroboration means are configured to form corresponding symmetrical or concentric structures with respect to one another, whereby, for example, the block 164 is easily observable by the human eye to be centered within the window 170 when said support body halves are aligned in facing superposition with one another. In this manner, positive and precise confirmation of the alignment of support body halves 154 and 156 is enabled subsequent to closure, thereby confirming the accurate superposition of features defined by the microstructures 162.

A wide variety of corresponding corroboration means may be formed in the subject embodiments without departing from the spirit of the instant invention. Such additional features include any combination of windows and/or corresponding structures such as grooves and ridges, or, for example, dual windows having slightly differing sizes, whereby said features cooperate to enable observation of microalignment of the component sections.

With particular reference to FIG. 5, a specialized intermediary substrate 176 may be interposed between the body halves 154 and 156 such that one or more integral features, generally indicated as 178 or 179 may interface with a feature or microstructure on one of the first and second planar interior surfaces 158 and 160. The intermediary substrate 176 is contemplated as being useful for providing a characteristic that may differ in a useful way from the material used to provide the foldable substrate 152. Accordingly, a intermediary substrate 176 may be included to expand the functionality of the planar device 150. For example, the intermediary substrate 176 can support a feature 178, 179 of a type, structure, or function that is difficult or impractical to provide in the foldable substrate 152 but which can be effectively provided in the material used to fabricate the intermediary substrate 176. Examples of such features include structural features such as: a microstructure, conductor, semiconductor, insulator, electrode, sensor, sensor array, catalyst, orifice, screen, well, restriction, frit, perforation, porous section, or permeable or semi-permeable region. Alternatively, the feature 178, 179 may define predetermined region that includes a surface treatment on a particular portion of the surface of the intermediary substrate 176, wherein the feature includes, for example, a surface treatment that is chemically or biologically-active; or includes a surface treatment that exhibits one or more particularly useful physical properties that may be difficult to provide in the foldable substrate 52, such as an optical, electrical, opto-electrical, magneto-optical, or magnetic characteristic. In still another example, the intermediary substrate 176 can exhibit a dimensional characteristic (such as a lesser thickness) or material composition (such as a ceramic material) that differs from the corresponding characteristic in the foldable substrate, or is difficult or impractical to provide in the foldable substrate 152.

Referring now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, a third embodiment of an integrated assembly may be provided in the form of a miniaturized planar device 252', wherein n component sections are formed by definition of (n-1) linear fold means in a single foldable substrate generally indicated at 288. In the illustrated embodiment, n is greater than two. The foldable substrate 288 thus comprises at least three component sections, e.g., a first portion 288A, second portion 288B, third portion 288C that may be closed upon one another according to a configuration considered herein as a "Z-fold" configuration. The second portion 288B, having first and second substantially planar opposing surfaces 256' and 258', respectively, where the second portion is interposed between a first portion 288A and a third portion 288C. The first and third portions have at least one substantially planar surface. The first portion 288A and the second portion 288B are separated by at least one linear fold means 290 such that the first portion can be readily folded to overlie the first substantially planar surface 256' of the second portion 288B. The third portion 288C and the second portion 288B are likewise separated by at least one linear fold means 292 such that the third portion can be readily folded to overlie the second substantially planar surface 258' of the second portion 288B. As described hereinabove, in particularly preferred embodiments, each linear fold means 290 and 292 includes a row of spaced-apart perforations etched in the foldable substrate, or spaced-apart slot-like depressions or apertures etched so as to extend only part way through the foldable substrate, or the like. The perforations or depressions can have circular, diamond, hexagonal or other shapes that promote hinge formation along a predetermined straight line.

Thus, the planar device 252' is formed by etching a first channel 260' in the first planar surface 256' of the second portion 288B, and a second channel 262' in the second planar surface 258' of the second portion. Each channel can be provided in a wide variety of geometries, configurations and aspect ratios. A first compartment is then formed by folding the foldable substrate 288 at the first fold means 290 such that the first portion 288A covers the first channel 260' to form an elongate compartment. A second compartment is then provided by folding the foldable substrate 288 at the second fold means 292 such that the third portion 288C covers the second channel 262' to form a compartment as described above. A conduit means 272', comprising an etched aperture in the second portion 288B having an axis which is orthogonal to the first and second planar surfaces 256' and 258', communicates a distal end of the first channel 260' with a first end of the second channel 262' to form a single, extended compartment.

Further, an aperture 268', etched in the first portion 288A, enables fluid communication with the first channel 260', and a second aperture 270', etched in the third portion 288C, enables fluid communication with the second channel 262'. As described above, when the first and second apertures are used as an inlet and outlet port, respectively, a miniaturized fluid-handling device is provided having a flow path extending along the combined length of the first and second channels.

With reference now to FIGS. 7-13, particular embodiments of miniaturized fluid-handling devices constructed according to the present invention will now be described.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7-9, a miniature planar manifold device may be provided in a fourth embodiment of an integrated assembly formed from a foldable substrate 312; with reference to FIGS. 10-13, a miniaturized separation column may be provided in a fifth embodiment of an integrated assembly formed from a foldable substrate 412. In the practice of the invention, miniaturized planar manifold device or a miniaturized planar column device may be formed by etching a set of desired features in the selected foldable substrate to form complementary microstructures. For example, the foldable substrate 412 for a miniaturized separation column includes complementary microstructures having micro-capillary dimensions ranging from 50-800 micrometers in diameter and path lengths of up to 15 meters or greater.

With reference to FIG. 7, the foldable substrate 312 includes first and second component sections 314, 316 and optional additional component sections 318, 320. Support tabs 322A, 322B, 322C, 322D may be snapped off of the component sections via breakable links 324 after the assembly process is complete. A variety of etched microstructures are contemplated to include: a linear fold means 330 including a linear arrangement of spaced perforations 332; device mounting holes 336; a variety of apertures 338; complementary microstructures such as channels 334A and 334B; thermal breaks 340A, 340B; and microalignment corroboration means in the form of blocks 352 and windows 354. The linear fold means further includes a preferred embodiment of a fold relief constructed in the form of a groove 362 which underlies the perforations 332. The fold relief allows the component sections 314-320 to fold flat without any significant distortion of the foldable substrate 312 in the vicinity of the linear fold means.

The ability to exert rigid computerized control over the formation of the desired microstructures enables extremely precise microstructure formation, which, in turn, enables the formation of such internal features as complementary micro-channels etched in two substantially planar component sections, whereby those component sections may be aligned by use of the linear fold means acting in concert with the fold relief, to define a composite sample processing compartment of enhanced symmetry and axial alignment. In this regard, it is contemplated to provide a further embodiment of the invention wherein etching is used to create two component sections which, when folded or aligned with one another, precisely define a miniaturized separation column device.

Accordingly, a novel miniaturized column device will be described which is preferably etched into a substrate other than silicon or silicon dioxide materials, and which avoid several major problems which have come to be associated with prior attempts at providing micro-column devices. The practice of the invention enables highly symmetrical and accurately defined miniature separation column devices to be fabricated in a wide class of metallic metal alloy substrates to provide a variety of miniaturized sample analysis systems. In this regard, miniaturized columns may be provided which have capillary dimensions (ranging from 25-1500 micrometer in diameter). This feature has not been attainable in prior attempts at miniaturization, such as in capillary electrophoresis, without substantial engineering of a device after capillary formation.

A miniaturized column device may be formed in an integrated assembly according to the invention by etching microstructures on component parts and aligning the components to form columns having enhanced symmetries. Formation of the subject channels in the open configuration enables a wide variety of surface treatments and modifications to be applied to the interior surfaces of the channels before formation of the sample processing compartment. In this manner, a wide variety of liquid phase analysis techniques may be carried out in the composite sample processing compartments thus formed, including chromatographic, electrophoretic, and electrochromatographic separations.

Referring now to FIGS. 10-12, a sample processing compartment may be provided in the form of a separation column formed by superposition of complementary microstructures 418A, 418B. The sample processing compartment includes an elongate bore defined by the first and second complementary channels 414 and 416. The sample processing compartment may be enclosed by folding the first and second component sections 406 and 408 in facing abutment with each other about a fold axis defined by a linear arrangement of perforations 407. In the practice of the invention, the first and second component halves may be held in fixable alignment with one another to form a fluid-tight sample processing compartment using pressure sealing techniques, such as by application of compression force and elevated temperatures to effect diffusion bonding of the mating surfaces 411, 413.

It is further contemplated according to the invention to form first and second channels 414 and 416 having semi-circular cross-sections whereby alignment of the component sections 406, 408 defines a sample processing compartment 418 having a highly symmetrical circular cross-section to enable enhanced fluid flow therethrough; however, as discussed above, a wide variety of channel geometries are also within the spirit of the invention.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it is particularly contemplated to form the mating surfaces 411, 413 to include a surface layer of nickel alloy that melts at the diffusion bonding temperature so as to provide a transient liquid phase, so as to promote the filling of surface defects as described above.

It is further contemplated according to the invention to form complementary outer moat channels 411A, 413A and inner moat channels 411A', 413A' that surround the outermost and innermost portions of the compartments 418A, 418B. The first and second channels 414 and 416 preferably include semi-circular cross-sections whereby alignment of the component sections 406, 408 defines a sample processing compartment 418 having a highly symmetrical circular cross-section to enable enhanced fluid flow therethrough. In this manner, the first and second component halves 406 and 408 may be diffusion bonded together without the intrusion of metal overflowing from the plated layer at the mating surfaces 411, 413 into the channels 414 and 416. The result is a planar capillary separation device defined by the superposition of the channels 414, 416 and a liquid-tight, diffusion-bonded weld. The planar capillary separation device has the same thermal properties and the same mechanical strength as the bulk foldable substrate material. As a result, the planar capillary separation device is especially susceptible to uniform heating and cooling, which can be a benefit when effecting a chromatographic sample analysis.

Referring now to FIGS. 12-13, the miniaturized column device 402 further comprises means for communicating associated external fluid handling functional means (not shown) with the sample processing compartment 418 to provide sample analysis device. More particularly, a plurality of apertures may be etched in the foldable substrate, wherein said apertures extend from at least one exterior surface of the support body and communicate with at least one channel, said apertures permitting the passage of fluid therethrough. In this regard, an inlet port 420 may be etched in the second component half 408 and communicate with a first end 422A, 422B of the first and second channel 414, 416. In the same manner, an outlet port 424 may be etched in the second component half 408 and communicate with a second end 426A, 426B of said first and second channel 414, 416.

As is readily apparent, a capillary column may thereby be formed by superposition of channels 414, 416, having a flow path extending from the first end 422A, 422B to the second end 426 thereof, by communicating fluids from an associated source (not shown) through the inlet port 420, passing the fluids through the sample processing compartment 418 formed by the alignment of channels 414 and 416, and allowing the fluids to exit the sample processing compartment via the outlet port 424. In this manner, a wide variety of analysis procedures may be carried out in the subject miniaturized column device using techniques well known in the art. Furthermore, various means for applying a motive force along the length of the sample processing compartment 418, such as a pressure differential or electric potential, may be readily interfaced to the column device via the inlet and outlet ports, or by interfacing with the sample processing compartment via additional apertures which may be etched in the foldable substrate 404.

Inlet port 420 may be formed such that a variety of external fluid and/or sample introduction means may be readily interfaced with the miniaturized column device 402. Such means include external pressure injection, hydrodynamic injection or electrokinetic injection mechanisms.

The miniaturized planar column device 412 may include detection means integrated on the support body 404. Accordingly, a wide variety of associated detection means may then be interfaced to the sample processing compartment 418 to detect separated analytes of interest passing therethrough, such as by connection of electrodes to the miniaturized column at the outlet port 424.

With reference now to FIGS. 14-16, it is to be understood that while the invention has been described in conjunction with the preferred specific embodiments thereof, that the description above as well as the example which now follows are intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the invention. Other aspects, advantages and modifications within the scope of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. The following examples are put forth so as to provide those of ordinary skill in the art with a complete disclosure and description of how to use the method of the invention, and is not intended to limit the scope of what the inventors regard as their invention. Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers (e.g., amounts, temperature, etc.) but some errors and deviations should be accounted for. Unless indicated otherwise, parts are parts by weight, temperature is in degree(s) C. and pressure is at or near atmospheric.

FIG. 14 illustrates an Area Percent Report for a methane sample separated in a prototype planar separation column device constructed according to the present invention. The column included a packed stationary phase composed of 80/100 HayesSep Poraplot Q. This was 50 microliter injection using a 30:1 split ratio; flow rate limited to approximately l milliliters (ml) per minute; the temperature profile was 110.degree. C. at 1 minute with 20.degree. C./minute ramp to 200.degree. C. The sample was a standard methane mixture having each component at approx. 1000 PPM of the C1-C6 series of paraffins. The sample mixture is commercially available as Scott Mix 224 from Altech (P/N M7018). The Total Area was determined to be 126109. The recorded peak results were as follows:

FIG. 15 illustrates an Area Percent Report for a methane sample separated in a prototype planar separation column device constructed according to the present invention. The column was 750 micrometer diameter, 2.5 meter length and included a packed stationary phase composed of 100-120 HayesSep Poraplot Q. This was 50 microliter Injection using a 30:1 split ratio; flow rate limited to approx. l milliliters (ml) per minute; the temperature profile was 110.degree. C. at 1 minute with 20.degree. C./minute ramp to 200.degree. C. The sample was a standard methane mixture having each component at approx. 1000 PPM of the C1-C5 series. The Total Area was determined to be 1.1147.times.(10.sup.8). The recorded peak results were as follows:

FIG. 16 illustrates an Area Percent Report for a methane sample separated in a prototype planar separation column device constructed according to the present invention. The column was 750 micrometer diameter, 2.5 meter length and included a packed stationary phase composed of 100-120 HayesSep Poraplot Q. This was 50 microliter Injection using a 30:1 split ratio; flow rate limited to approx. l milliliters (ml) per minute; the temperature profile was 110.degree. C. at 1 minute with 20.degree. C./minute ramp to 200.degree. C. The sample was a standard methane mixture having each component at approx. 1000 PPM of the C1-C5 series of paraffins. The Total Area was determined to be 1.3356.times.(10.sup.8). The recorded peak results were as follows:

Turning now to FIGS. 17-18, one skilled in the art will appreciate that based on the foregoing description, another novel embodiment of an integrated assembly may include sample introduction means mounted upon the integrated assembly, or etched into the foldable substrate. In this manner, a sample being held in an external reservoir may be introduced into a by-pass channel to form a sample plug of a known volume; the sample plug thus formed may then be introduced into the first end of the sample processing compartment via an inlet port by communicating external mechanical valving with the inlet port and apertures.

It is noted that the integrated assembly may further enable a wide variety of sample introduction techniques to be practiced according to the invention. Particularly, having a by-pass channel which is not connected to the sample processing compartment allows a user to flush a sample through the by-pass channel without experiencing sample carry-over or column contamination. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art after reading this specification, one such sample introduction technique may be effected by butt-coupling an associated rotor to a stator (not shown) on the external surface of an integrated assembly where the rotor selectively interfaces external tubing and fluid sources with inlet port.

Furthermore, in the practice of the invention, external hardware may be provided to effect the mechanical valving necessary for communication of the channels in an integrated assembly to different external liquid reservoirs, such as a detector gas, an electrolyte solution, flush solution, or the sample stream delivered via apertures designed into the foldable substrate This feature allows a variety of injection methods to be adapted to the integrated assembly, including pressure injection, hydrodynamic injection, or electrokinetic injection.

Additionally, a variety of detection means are easily included in the integrated assembly. In this regard, a first aperture can be etched in a first component section, and a second aperture can likewise be formed in a second component section such that the first and second apertures will be in co-axial alignment with internal fluid-bearing conduit when the foldable substrate is closed. Detection of analytes in a separated sample passing through the conduit is thereby easily enabled, such as by connecting electrodes to the miniaturized column via apertures and detecting using, e.g., electrochemical techniques.

Also according to the invention, a variety of means for applying a motive force along the length of the sample processing compartment may be associated with the integrated assembly. In this regard, a pressure differential or electric potential may be applied along the entire length of a sample processing compartment by interfacing motive means with inlet port and outlet port.

It is contemplated that external valving, detection; and injection means communicate with the internal features by surface, edge, or butt-coupling such devices to respective apertures. However, other suitable methods of connection known in the art may easily be adapted to the invention. Further, it is noted that numerous other sample introduction and fluid interfacing designs may be practiced and still fall within the spirit of the subject invention.

Accordingly, a new and novel analytical instrument is shown schematically in FIG. 17 and is generally designated as chromatograph 610. A simplified side perspective view of a planar module 620 for use in the chromatograph 610 is illustrated in FIG. 18. The planar module 620 is provided in the form of an integrated assembly that includes an embodiment of the planar separation column device 412 of FIGS. 10-12 and is constructed to support and receive certain surface-mounted fluid handling functional devices such as an inlet 612, detector 624, data and control line interface 613, a temperature control means such as a planar resistive heater 616, and valves 618. Thermal breaks 642 separate a temperature-controlled zone 644 from the valve section 646.

In order to perform a chromatographic separation of a given sample compound, a sample is injected with a pressurized carrier gas by means of the inlet 612. The carrier gas supplied to inlet 612 is provided from a source 612A through one or more of the valves 618, each of which serves in part to control and redirect a plurality of gas flows including the carrier gas and a plurality of detector gasses of appropriate types, such as air, hydrogen, and make-up gas. The detector gases are provided from respective sources (one such source 624A is shown) to a valve 618. Suitable fluid-handling functional devices, such as fittings, regulators, valves, sensors, and the like in the planar module 620 may be passive (such as a termination fitting) or active and hence operated under the control of the computer 622 by way of control signals provided on a data and control line 630 to the interface 613. For example, the pneumatic controller 626 effects control of, among other things, fluid flow rate, fluid pressure, fluid flow regulation, and the continuity or discontinuity of flow. The control and data line 630 also allows the return of sense information from appropriate signal-interface electronics that connect to the valves 618, sensors (not shown), etc. that are provided in the planar module 620. Accordingly, the computer 622, pneumatic controller 626, and planar module 620 may be operated to effect a variety of fluid handling functions that heretofore have been difficult to achieve in conventional fluid-handling apparatus.

The column 614 is provided in an integrated assembly that also functions as the supporting structure for the planar module 620. The carrier gas/sample combination passing through column 614 is exposed to a temperature profile resulting in part from the operation of the resistive heater 616. During this profile of changing temperatures, the sample will separate into its components primarily due to differences in the interaction of each component with the column 614 at a given temperature. As the separated components exit the column 614, they are detected by the detector 624.

Computer 622 maintains overall control of all systems associated with gas chromatograph 610. An electronic control panel 650 is shown to include at least two main input/output components, namely a keypad 658, and a display 660. By monitoring the operation of the chromatograph 610 by signals from certain components, such as the detector 624, the computer 622 can initiate and maintain certain functions required for an analytical run. Messages can be generated by computer 622 and displayed on display 660. Operating commands and other information are entered into computer 622 by way of keypad 658.