What are the most common automated sample preparation systems for laboratories?

2 Solid phase extraction systems

Solid phase extraction (SPE) systems are devices that can separate and concentrate analytes from complex matrices such as biological fluids, environmental samples, or food products. SPE systems use a solid phase material, such as a cartridge, a disk, or a well plate, that selectively binds to the analytes of interest, while the unwanted components are washed away. Then, the analytes are eluted from the solid phase with a suitable solvent, and collected for further analysis. SPE systems can automate sample preparation steps such as sample loading, washing, elution, or evaporation, and can interface with other instruments such as liquid chromatography or mass spectrometry. SPE systems can enhance the sensitivity, selectivity, and reliability of sample preparation, and reduce the consumption of solvents, reagents, or sample volume.

3 Microwave-assisted extraction systems

Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) systems are devices that can extract analytes from solid or semi-solid samples using microwave radiation as a heating source. MAE systems use a closed vessel that contains the sample and a solvent, and exposes it to microwave energy that rapidly increases the temperature and pressure inside the vessel. This enhances the solubilization, diffusion, and desorption of the analytes from the sample matrix, and reduces the extraction time and solvent consumption. MAE systems can automate sample preparation steps such as sample loading, heating, cooling, or filtration, and can work with various solvents, samples, or analytes. MAE systems can improve the efficiency, safety, and environmental friendliness of sample preparation, and reduce the degradation or loss of volatile or thermally unstable analytes.

4 Nucleic acid extraction systems

Nucleic acid extraction systems are devices that can isolate DNA or RNA from biological samples such as blood, saliva, tissue, or cells. Nucleic acid extraction systems use different methods to break down the cell membrane and the nuclear envelope, release the nucleic acids, and separate them from the proteins, lipids, or other contaminants. Some of the methods include mechanical disruption, chemical lysis, magnetic separation, or silica-based binding. Nucleic acid extraction systems can automate sample preparation steps such as sample homogenization, lysis, binding, washing, or elution, and can process multiple samples in parallel. Nucleic acid extraction systems can ensure the quality, purity, and yield of nucleic acids, and facilitate downstream applications such as PCR, sequencing, or gene expression analysis.

5 Sample digestion systems

Sample digestion systems are devices that can dissolve or decompose solid or semi-solid samples into liquid solutions for elemental analysis. Sample digestion systems use different methods to break down the organic or inorganic matrix of the sample, and release the elements of interest into a suitable acid solution. Some of the methods include wet digestion, dry ashing, microwave digestion, or combustion. Sample digestion systems can automate sample preparation steps such as sample weighing, acid addition, digestion, dilution, or filtration, and can handle various types of samples, acids, or elements. Sample digestion systems can optimize the performance, accuracy, and safety of sample preparation, and reduce the digestion time, acid consumption, or sample contamination.