Automation of Gas Chromatography Sample Prep

Automating GC sample prep involves using specialized technologies and systems to streamline the process:

• • Sample Identification and Loading:Automated systems use barcodes or sample IDs and robotic arms or autosamplers to load vials into the system.
  • Dilution or mixing: The system can dilute samples with solvents or mix them with reagents using precision liquid handling tools.
  • Filtration or Centrifugation (if needed): Automated filters or centrifuges may be included to remove particulates before injection.
  • Headspace Sampling or Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME): Automated handling of headspace vials or SPME fibers for volatile compound analysis.
  • Injection into GC System:The prepared sample is automatically injected into the GC via an autosampler.

Automate GC Sample Prep with Opentrons:

Interested in automating the reagent dispensing steps in your lab’s gas chromatography sample prep workflows? Enter the Opentrons Flex, a walk up, no-code pipetting robot that scales with your lab. Let us handle the pipetting while you spend more time on science.

Benefits of Automation Over Manual Methods

• Increased Speed:Automated systems significantly speed up the sample preparation process, allowing for higher throughput and faster turnaround times, which is especially valuable in large-scale studies.
• Improved Reproducibility: Automation ensures consistent sample preparation by minimizing human error and variability between different samples or operators, leading to more reliable results.
• Higher Throughput: Automation allows for handling larger sample volumes simultaneously, ideal for high-throughput projects.
• Better Accuracy and Precision: Robots perform tasks with higher precision, reducing contamination and errors.
• Cost Savings: Though the upfront cost can be higher than manual methods, automation reduces labor and reagent waste in the long run.

Methods of Gas Chromatography (GC) Sample Prep

Headspace Sampling

Analyzes volatile compounds in the gas phase above a liquid or solid sample without direct contact with the sample matrix.

Derivatization

Chemically modifies analytes to increase their volatility, stability, or detectability in GC.

Purge and Trap

Volatile compounds are purged from a sample with an inert gas and trapped on a sorbent before being released into the GC.

Dilution

Reduces analyte concentration or matrix effects by adding solvent, ensuring compatibility with the GC system.