Van-Slyke Apparatus

Van-Slyke apparatus

The Van Slyke apparatus is a laboratory device invented by American biochemist Donald Dexter van Slyke in 1912. It is used for the quantitative determination of gases (eg oxygen, carbon dioxide) in liquids.

The operating principle of the device is based on measuring the volume of gas released from the analyzed sample when interacting with reagents. The liquid is placed in a vessel connected to a measuring burette. When the reagent is added, gas is released and its volume can be determined on the burette scale.

The Van Slyke apparatus was widely used for blood analysis, determination of carbon dioxide in blood plasma, and for other medical and biological research. It made it possible to analyze small volumes of samples with high accuracy.

Subsequently, more advanced instruments were developed based on the Van Slyke apparatus, but its operating principle is still used in modern laboratory equipment. The development of this device made a significant contribution to the development of analytical chemistry and medical diagnostics.

American chemist David Van Slyke (1883 – 10/14/1972) turned 132 years old in August 2015. He was awarded the Ig Nobel Prize for his 1937 and 1953 works. An instrument in optical microscopy research and data measurement bears his name. The Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology lists several inventions in the field of industrial design and 568 inventions. The scientist’s works contributed not only to his field of activity, but also to radiophysics, electronics, business, finance, and geometry. Some inventions also have practical significance.

Van Slyke (David D) was born on August 24, 1851 in Hartford, Connecticut, into the family of an entrepreneur. He graduated from Harvard University (1905), where he received his doctorate,