Application of curve regeneration to the determination of electrolytes by the flame IV auto-analyser using a mini-computer

Curve regeneration is applied to the continuous-flow determination of serum Na+, K+, Cl − and CO 2 by the Flame photometer IV (Technicon Corp.). A Hewlett-Packard 2100 A mini-computer is used for data acquisition. The continuous-flow parameters of both rise and fall curves are estimated from computer sampled voltage outputs over the standard profile. An additional interaction correction variable designated as Beta (β) is described and applied to the regenerated peaks of the cresol red CO 2 procedure. The phenolphthlalein CO 2 methodology, showing improved flow parameters over those for the cresol red procedure is adapted for the Flame IV system. The basic program design is briefly outlined. Typical computer determined calibration curves (linear regression) and sample peak tracings for both the basic and regenerated techniques are illustrated.