Pump-Free Phase-Change-Driven Microchromatography Using Single-Use Aluminum Cartridges for Field-Deployable Chemical Analysis

This white paper discloses a pump-free chromatographic separation concept based on thermally induced phase change of a mobile phase under reduced pressure. The system eliminates mechanical pumps, valves, and external solvent delivery by integrating separation, transport, and thermal control within a sealed micro-scale cartridge. Single-use aluminum-based cartridges containing micro-quantities of solvent and stationary phase are proposed to enable rapid, low-maintenance, and field-deployable chemical analysis. The concept prioritizes reduced complexity, minimal servicing, environmental sustainability, and accessibility over high-throughput laboratory instrumentation. This disclosure is intended as a defensive publication establishing prior art.