An apparatus for generation of vapors from liquids of low volatility for use in inhalation toxicity studies.

While it is usually a simple matter to perform inhalation exposures to vapors from low-boiling liquids, inhalation exposures to vapors of high-boiling liquids present problems, especially the risk of decomposing the test substance by use of excessive heat. This work describes a device for the volatilization of high-boiling liquids, in a manner suitable for conducting inhalation exposures, without requiring heat input, which avoids this difficulty. The device is based on counter-current volatilization employing a multi-plate high efficiency distillation column. The column is thermostated below ambient temperature, which increases stability of operation and flexibility of application.