RESIDENCE TIME: A Summary
NEXT
PREVIOUS
All constant flow rate based  techniques share the same weakness. The time available for chemical reactions to proceed is limited by a combination of channel volume, channel geometry and flow rate applied to move the sample zone from injector to detector.

Increasing the length (and volume) of the flow channel is not a good option since the sample zone broadens and peak height decreases with increased length of travel.

Slowing the flow rate and shortening the channel is a better choice (compare 1.2.29.  with 1.2.30.) but the best way to optimize the assay is to program the flow rate in such a way the it suits the requirements of each individual step of an assay.
1.2.26.
Stopping the flow has additional advantages. It yields a large number of data points, allows background (color) correction, offers insight into reaction rate, saves reagents and generates less waste. Since peristaltic pumps, for technical reasons, are less accurate, multi-syringe injection offers a viable approach to stopped flow FI.  Ultimately, however SI stopped flow in LOV format is the best choice.