Christine L Rankin

Title: Christine L. Rankin: Innovator in Gas Chromatography Systems

Introduction

Christine L. Rankin is a prominent inventor based in Ann Arbor, MI (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of gas chromatography, particularly through her innovative patents. With a total of 3 patents, her work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of gas chromatography systems.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents is titled "Thermal modulation inlet for gas chromatography system." This invention introduces a simplified sample injection system that replaces conventional mechanical injection systems with a method based on thermal trapping of a continuously supplied carrier gas and sample stream. The system allows for continuous passage of the carrier gas and sample stream through a thermal focusing chamber, which communicates with the inlet end of a gas chromatography separation column. By lowering the temperature of the sample tube within the focusing chamber, incoming components of the sample stream are condensed and trapped. The rapid heating of the sample in the thermal focusing chamber enables a narrow sample plug to be injected into the column. This invention also includes features for evaluating carrier gas and sample streams at above atmospheric pressure or drawn through a vacuum source.

Another notable patent is "Sample collection and inlet systems for gas chromatography apparatus." This system incorporates a thermal focusing chamber for introducing samples into a column for separation and analysis. It significantly reduces the memory effect, where one analysis is influenced by prior experiments, and minimizes system dead volume, which can lead to peak broadening and artifacts from sample decomposition. The novel fluid circuit traps the sample onto the column, eliminating the need for the sample to reside in the heated focusing chamber for extended periods, thus preventing decomposition. This system also allows for sampling from various pressure sources, including ambient pressure, and offers an alternative for monitoring without mechanical valves in the sample flow path.

Career Highlights

Christine L. Rankin is affiliated with the University of Michigan, where she continues her research and development in gas chromatography technologies. Her work has been instrumental in advancing the capabilities of gas chromatography systems, making them more efficient and reliable for various applications.

Collaborations

Christine has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Richard D. Sacks and Mark A. Klemp, contributing to the advancement of their shared field of expertise.

Conclusion

Christine L. Rankin's innovative contributions to gas chromatography systems have significantly impacted the field. Her patents reflect her