APPARATUS FOR USE IN SPECTROSCOPICALLY ANALYZING PROPERTIES OF TEST SAMPLES

An apparatus is disclosed for use in spectroscopically analyzing properties of a plurality of test samples. The apparatus includes a support member for stationarily supporting a plurality of test cells containing test samples to be analyzed and suitable devices for directing a beam of radiation successively at the test cells and for then receiving output radiation from the test cells. The radiation directing and detector devices are mounted in fixed relationship to one another, and arranged with respect to the support member so that when the beam of radiation from the radiation directing device is directed onto one of the test cells, the radiation detector will receive output radiation from the same cell. The radiation directing and detector devices are moved as a unit relative to the stationary test cells in a manner so that the beam of radiation from the directing device is directed successively at the plurality of test cells, whereby the radiation detector device will then receive successively output radiation from the plurality of test cells. In this manner, analysis of the properties of a plurality of test samples may be quickly and efficiently made. Further, the fact that the test cells are stationarily supported and the radiation directing and detecting devices are moved relative thereto is most advantageous in connection with spectroscopic analysis of flow through fluid test samples in which the sample fluid to be analyzed is continuously introduced into and withdrawn from the stationarily supported test cells.