Micro-SPE
Micro-SPE

Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) is a reference technique in modern laboratories for sample preparation and clean-up

The application of µSPE avoids the analyte dilution, does not need solvent evaporation or cartridge drying. Typical applications are for the QuEChERS pesticides analysis, veterinary drug control, filtration of life science samples, and more.

The use of micro-SPE (µSPE) in automated sample preparation workflows replaces the manual SPE procedure with large solvent volumes - an important step ahead for green analytical chemistry and cost savings in the laboratory. The µSPE cartridge works as a small LC column. Only micro volumes of sample or elution solvents are used. A syringe works as the solvent 'pump' with constant flow and pressure delivering high repeatability in the automated procedures. 

Compare classical SPE and µSPE

Dispersive SPE

µSPE

  • Limited selectivity, limited clean-up

    • High sample and solvent volumes

    • Requires evaporation with N2

    • End volume > 0.5 mL in vial

  • High selectivity

    • Sharp eluation peak profile, no concentration

    • Final volume < 100-200 µL (or online), no sample concentration by evaporation

  • Good clean-up compares to LC separation

  • Manual Operation

    • Time consuming

    • Low sample throughput

    • Batch processing

  • Walk away automation

    • Fast with < 10 min

    • High productivity

    • Prep on chromatographic timescale

  • Not traceable

    • Manual operation

    • No activity log

  • Traceable

    • Processing well documented

    • 21CFR11 compatible

 

 

 

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