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Abstract

A gas sample collection device and method for cold trapping individual gas bands from a gas source that may include a chromatographic separation and for spectrographically analyzing the individual gas bands. The device includes a vacuum chamber containing a rotatably supported highly thermally conductive transmissive substrate having a highly thermally conductive support axle and at least one transmissive surface for holding a sample deposited thereon. A gas inlet is provided for depositing a mixture of sample and matrix material on the transmissive surface which is maintained at a sufficiently low temperature to cause solidification of the gas. A first set of optical elements directs an incident beam of electromagnetic analytical radiation from a source onto the solidified deposit, while a second set of optical elements directs the portion of incident beam transmitted through the deposit and substrate to a detector that is sensitive to the spectral wavelengths being investigated. A highly thermally conductive flexible strap is connected between the support axle and a cold head of a cryogenic refrigerator for transferring heat from the substrate. The strap is of sufficient length and flexibility to wrap around the axle as it is rotated through an angle of 360 degrees. A cold shield having closable apertures is provided for thermally insulating the substrate from warmer outside temperatures, the closable apertures being opened to allow access to the substrate for sample deposition and analysis. An insulated actuator is provided for imparting rotational movement to the axle and substrate assembly.

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First Claim