A possible approach to the optimization of flow injectin analysis

The theory of sample zone dispersion is well known for most cases of practical interest in flow injection analysis. This paper offers a theoretical analysis which allows for the optimal design of single-line flow systems. For various reactor types, a detailed analysis is provided in terms of physical constants, design parameters and constraints. It is shown that, within practical constraints and using a pressure drop of less than 1 bar, it is possible to operate flow systems at 100 samples per hour, with a residence time of 100 s and a reagent consumption of 8 μl for each determination. Further miniaturization of flow systems must rely on smaller detector volumes than those currently available, a situation not unlike that in liquid chromatography