Revolutionizing Environmental Analysis: Cost Savings, Enhanced Data Quality through Automated Sample Prep

In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive scientific industry, laboratories are constantly seeking ways to reduce costs, and enhance data quality where the need for precision, efficiency, and reliability is paramount. One of the longstanding challenges faced by laboratories has been the time-consuming and labor-intensive nature of sample preparation.

One area where significant improvements can be made is in the automation of sample preparation workflows. This blog will delve into the problem of manual sample preparation and the effects it can have on the business of science and the potential benefits of automating these processes.

The problem with manual sample prep

Traditional sample preparation methods for the organics analysis of environmental matrices involve laborious and manual techniques, resulting in a slow and error-prone process. This not only consumes valuable human resources but also leads to increased operational costs. Moreover, the use of large volumes of solvents contributes to high expenses and environmental impact. The variability in manual operations can introduce inconsistency in the results, compromising data quality and reliability. The consequences of these inefficiencies ripple through the entire laboratory workflow, affecting and hindering the ability to meet growing demands for sample analysis.

Novel automated workflow as the solution

Enter HERAtech’s groundbreaking webinar, presenting an innovative solution to the challenges posed by manual sample preparation. The focus is on Automated Dispersive Liquid-Liquid Micro Extraction for the analysis of pesticides and PAHs in surface waters, coupled with online Gas Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) analysis. This novel automated workflow not only streamlines the process but also promises substantial cost savings and improved data quality.

Cost savings

HERAtech’s automated approach brings about notable cost savings through several key mechanisms. Higher sample throughput is achieved by eliminating the bottlenecks associated with manual sample preparation, enabling laboratories to process a greater number of samples in a shorter timeframe. Furthermore, the reduction in solvent consumption, a direct result of the automated process, not only minimizes costs but also aligns with environmental sustainability goals.

Increased data quality

The integration of online GC-MS/MS analysis ensures not only rapid results but also enhanced data quality. Automation minimizes the risk of human error, providing more accurate and reproducible results. The use of Thermo Scientific Chromeleon Chromatography Data System (CDS) software adds another layer of efficiency, allowing for unattended operations and easy system control, allows scientists to maximize their productivity.

Automation as a transformative force

In the pursuit of efficiency and sustainability in environmental analysis, automation emerges as a transformative force. The problems associated with manual sample preparation methods are not only addressed but overcome with this innovative approach.

By embracing automation, laboratories adopting this automated workflow stand to benefit from significant cost savings achieved through higher sample throughput, reduced labor requirements, and decreased solvent consumption, coupled with the increased data quality and time optimization.

Automation is a valuable investment for any laboratory seeking to improve productivity and enhance research outcomes. Embracing automation, such as the automated dispersive liquid-liquid micro extraction workflow presented by HERAtech, can revolutionize laboratory operations and drive scientific advancements.

Embracing automation, such as the automated dispersive liquid-liquid micro extraction workflow presented by HERAtech, can revolutionize laboratory operations and drive scientific advancements.

Watch the webinar Cost savings and increased data quality through automation on demand.