Blowdown evaporation is a common sample preparation step used by analytical laboratories to dry down or concentrate their test samples. Dry gas is continuously blown onto the sample's surface, sometimes in conjunction with heat, to speed up the evaporation of excess solvent and further concentrate the sample prior to analytical techniques such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/preparing-samples-for-gc-ms/ms-analysis">GC-MS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/preparing-samples-for-hplc-ms/ms-analysis">HPLC</a>. Nitrogen gas is most commonly used during <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9dbWmoWwSw">blowdown evaporation</a> as it provides the fastest evaporation rates, and is a proven safe drying media that poses minimal risk to the analysis.Dry nitrogen is considered an inert gas, which means that it is chemically inactive. Unlike compressed air that contains oxygen and water vapor that could react with the compounds in the test sample, pure, dry nitrogen will not deteriorate the sample in any way.High purity nitrogen is able to delay or prevent oxidation that could occur throughout the drying process. Depending on the solvents and solutes contained in the test sample, a chemical reaction could occur with a relatively small exposure to oxygen. Drying that sample down with compressed air which contains a fair amount of oxygen, will not only speed up the oxidation process, but also make your final analysis unreliable.What's even more important than keeping the samples safe, is keeping the lab technicians safe during the entire evaporation process. Since nitrogen is a non-reactive gas, it's also non-flammable and will not increase the risk of an chemical combustion. This is especially important when working with any flammable or otherwise reactive solvents such as carbon disulfide and diethyl ether.Not only is nitrogen gas the most reliable drying media, but it is also proven to have the fastest evaporation rate. Studies have shown that evaporation rate is dependent on the humidity of the atmosphere in which the samples are in. The more steps that can be taken to reduce the humidity, the faster the concentration rate will be. These same studies have shown that the most effective way to reduce the humidity is by purging the atmosphere with nitrogen, aka nitrogen blowdown evaporation.Faster concentration rates lead to a reduction in contamination and degradation risks by minimizing the amount of time the samples spend in the atmosphere. The use of nitrogen gas in blowdown evaporation provides labs with the most dependable samples to analyze in the quickest amount of time. It's a win-win.Another win is that nitrogen gas is a far more affordable alternative to other inert gasses such helium or argon. This is especially true with the use of a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1902">nitrogen generator</a>, which can provide an endless supply of high-purity nitrogen for your laboratory. With minimal maintenance and virtually no waste, you can feel good knowing you're utilizing an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/are-nitrogen-generators-actually-more-environmentally-friendly">eco-friendly nitrogen generation solution</a>.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_NITRO_GEN_Nitrogen_Generator_1cce90a981.webp" alt="Organomation: Why Nitrogen is Ideal for Drying Samples: Organomation NITRO-GEN Nitrogen Generator." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_NITRO_GEN_Nitrogen_Generator_1cce90a981.webp 156w," sizes="100vw" width="1400" height="1400">Learn the most <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/nitrogen-generation-options-for-laboratory-use">common nitrogen generation options for laboratory use</a>, and discover the solution that best fits your needs. For more information on nitrogen generators, check out this comprehensive guide: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/nitrogen-generators-everything-you-need-to-know">Nitrogen Generators: Everything You Need to Know</a>.

Why Nitrogen is Ideal for Drying Samples

Many industries rely on a nitrogen blowdown evaporator as a key step in processing their samples. These industries include environmental testing, agriculture, food and beverage, medicine, quality assurance, forensics, oil and grease, and many more. So, what exactly is it?A nitrogen blowdown evaporator is a key piece of lab equipment that is used to prepare samples for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/chromatography-sample-preparation-guide">chromatography</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/mass-spectrometry-sample-preparation-guide">mass spectrometry</a> or other analysis by removing excess solvent. The process works by lowering the vapor pressure above the sample, allowing excess solvent to evaporate more quickly. This method of concentration is especially effective for small volume samples in volatile or semi-volatile organic solvents. The precision of nitrogen blowdown makes it a great choice for those who are looking to evaporate to complete dryness or stop at a specific endpoint.Compared to a heated sample, solvent molecules in a sample under ambient conditions are very low energy and therefore slow-moving. Due to this lack of speed, only some molecules can be vaporized and separated from the sample. Combined with the vapor pressure above the sample this causes many molecules to return, slowing down evaporation. This is where nitrogen blowdown evaporation is a useful tool. The evaporator works by applying a steady stream of nitrogen gas just above the surface of the sample, which gently pushes the vapor-saturated air out, preventing it from returning to the remaining liquid.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_What_is_Nitrogen_Blowdown_Evaporation_2_64a8e42723.jpg" alt="Organomation: What is Nitrogen Blowdown Evaporation?" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_What_is_Nitrogen_Blowdown_Evaporation_2_64a8e42723.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="827" height="398">The nitrogen gas cools the sample slightly, which decreases the energy of the molecules and slows them down, diminishing their ability to vaporize. To speed the molecules back up, heat can be applied in the form of a water bath or dry block in order to reenergize the sample. The combination of nitrogen blowdown and heat quickly vaporizes the molecules, leaving a perfectly evaporated sample behind. If you are using a water bath, it should be set to a few degrees lower than the boiling point of your sample in order to achieve maximum concentration. On average, it takes only twenty-five minutes to safely concentrate a 10mL sample of methylene chloride using a nitrogen blowdown evaporator. This is compared to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/how-much-time-is-wasted-preparing-individual-sample-vials-infographic">evaporating samples by hand</a>, which can be a time-consuming process. For a few samples this can be justifiable, but for regular use, evaporation by hand is an inefficient process.Nitrogen blowdown is gentle on the sample and does not require any consumables, making it an affordable and safe choice. We offer three product lines of nitrogen blowdown evaporators – the most-popular N-EVAP and its counterparts, MULTIVAP, and MICROVAP. You can <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/the-differences-between-organomations-blowdown-evaporators">learn more</a> about the differences between these products, and use our quick <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/support/contact-help-support/sample-evaporator-product-finder">product finder</a> to figure out which one is the best fit for your needs.Nitrogen can be expensive to purchase and inconvenient to store. We are proud to make a lightweight and portable <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/enhance-your-sample-preparation-with-a-nitrogen-gas-generator">nitrogen gas generator</a>, called the NITRO-GEN. It is the perfect solution for any laboratory looking for a low-cost solution to integrate with an existing clean air line. It also boasts a reduction in your carbon footprint, removing the emissions of transporting nitrogen cylinders to and from your lab.<blockquote>For more information on nitrogen blowdown evaporation or on any of our products, reach out to our team at <a href="mailto:sales@organomation.com">sales@organomation.com</a> or use our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/#hs-chat-open">live chat</a> during normal business hours.</blockquote>

What is Nitrogen Blowdown Evaporation?

In the world of analytical chemistry, the focus often falls on cutting-edge instrumentation and groundbreaking analytical techniques. However, a crucial yet frequently overlooked aspect of the analytical process is sample preparation. Recent research into university laboratory practices and costs reveals that sample preparation is not only time-consuming but also represents a significant portion of analytical expenses. This article delves into the importance of efficient sample preparation and how tools like Organomation's blowdown evaporators can revolutionize laboratory workflows.<h3>The True Cost of Sample Preparation</h3>To understand the value of sample preparation time, we took a look at what an average American university lab charges for their sample preparation services. Our findings from the University of Kansas paint a clear picture of the resources dedicated to this critical step:<ol><li>&nbsp;Sample Preparation Charges:</li></ol><ul><li>Internal Users are charged $76 per sample</li><li>External Users are charged $118 per sample</li></ul><ol start="2"><li>Analytical Instrumentation Time:</li></ol><ul><li>Internal Users are charged $30 per hour</li><li>External Users are charged $47 per hour</li></ul>These figures demonstrate that sample preparation costs are comparable to, and in some cases exceed, the hourly rates for using advanced analytical instruments. This underscores the significant value placed on sample preparation by research institutions.<h3>Time: The Hidden Resource</h3>Beyond monetary costs, time is perhaps the most critical resource in laboratory settings. Our research indicates that sample preparation typically consumes over two-thirds of the total analysis time in many analytical procedures. This disproportionate time allocation can create <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/is-removing-solvent-from-test-tubes-slowing-your-research">bottlenecks in research workflows</a>, potentially delaying important discoveries and slowing down scientific progress.<h3>The Ripple Effect of Inefficient Sample Preparation</h3>Inefficient sample preparation techniques, such as<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/how-much-time-is-wasted-preparing-individual-sample-vials-infographic"> drying down sample vials one at a time</a>, can have far-reaching consequences:<ol><li>Reduced sample throughput</li><li>Increased risk of sample contamination or loss</li><li>Greater variability in results due to inconsistent preparation methods</li><li>Less time available for data analysis and interpretation</li><li>Delayed publication of research findings</li></ol><h3>Transforming Workflows with Efficient Sample Preparation</h3>Investing in efficient sample preparation techniques, such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=362&amp;instrumentationItems=10&amp;manufacturerItems=540">Organomation's blowdown evaporators</a>, can yield significant benefits:<ul><li>Time Savings: Simultaneous processing of multiple samples dramatically reduces overall preparation time.</li><li>Improved Consistency: Automated systems ensure uniform treatment of all samples, enhancing reproducibility.</li><li>Resource Optimization: Researchers can reallocate saved time to higher-value activities such as data analysis or method development.</li><li>Cost-Effectiveness: While there's an initial investment, efficient preparation techniques can lead to long-term cost savings through increased productivity.</li><li>Enhanced Research Quality: More time for careful analysis and interpretation can lead to more robust and impactful research outcomes.</li></ul><h3> Case Study: University of Cincinnati's Transition to Automated Sample Drying</h3>The Department of Chemical &amp; Environmental Engineering at the University of Cincinnati faced a common challenge in their analysis of environmental samples for organic pollutants: the need for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/manual-to-automated-solvent-drying-is-it-worth-the-switch">efficient sample concentration prior to LC-MS analysis</a>. Their workflow involved processing batches of 10 samples, each containing 5 mL of methanol or acetonitrile that needed to be evaporated to complete dryness.<h4>The Challenge</h4>Initially, the lab relied on a makeshift evaporation setup in their fume hood due to budget constraints. This manual method had several drawbacks:<ul><li>It took over 2 hours to dry down each sample, and not to complete dryness.</li><li>Only one sample could be processed at a time, creating a significant bottleneck.</li><li>The process lacked precision and control, potentially affecting result consistency.</li></ul><h4>The Solution: Organomation's N-EVAP Nitrogen Evaporator</h4>With some end-of-year budget available, the lab invested in a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/1908">12-position N-EVAP nitrogen evaporator from Organomation</a>. This decision led to immediate and substantial improvements:<ul><li>Dramatic Time Savings: Evaporation time was reduced from over 20 hours for a batch of 10 samples to just 1 hour - a 20x improvement in efficiency.</li><li>Increased Capacity: The ability to process up to 12 samples simultaneously eliminated the previous bottleneck.</li><li>Enhanced Precision: Individual adjustment of flow rate and needle height for each sample allowed for consistent and controlled evaporation.</li><li>Improved Results: The N-EVAP achieved complete dryness, enhancing the accuracy of low-concentration analyte detection.</li><li>Ease of Use: The system's simple design and unattended operation streamlined the process, reducing manual intervention and potential errors.</li></ul><h4>Key Factors in Efficiency Improvement</h4>The dramatic increase in efficiency was attributed to several factors:<ul><li>Batch Processing: The ability to evaporate multiple samples simultaneously.</li><li>Controlled Heating: Introduction of a gentle water bath (35°C) significantly increased evaporation rates.</li><li>Switch to Nitrogen Gas: Replacing compressed air with nitrogen resulted in approximately 10% faster evaporation.</li></ul>This case study demonstrates how transitioning from manual to automated sample drying can significantly enhance laboratory efficiency, particularly in academic settings where resources are often limited. The investment in appropriate equipment not only saved time but also improved the quality and consistency of research outcomes.<h3>Calculate Your Potential Time Savings</h3>To help researchers quantify the potential benefits of upgrading their sample preparation methods, Organomation offers a free, easy-to-use Evaporation Time Calculator. This valuable tool allows you to estimate how much time you could save by using an Organomation nitrogen evaporator instead of your current sample concentration procedure.Using the calculator is simple:<ol><li>Visit <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/evaporation-time-calculator">https://www.organomation.com/evaporation-time-calculator</a></li><li>Enter your starting sample volume</li><li>Input your desired ending volume</li><li>Select the solvent you're removing</li></ol>Within just one minute of submitting this information, you'll receive a customized estimate of your potential time savings. This instant feedback can help you make informed decisions about optimizing your laboratory's workflow.We encourage all researchers to take advantage of this free tool. By seeing concrete numbers specific to your procedures, you can better understand the impact that efficient sample preparation techniques could have on your research productivity. Whether you're dealing with a handful of samples or managing high-throughput operations, the potential time savings could be substantial.<h3>The Value of Time in Analytical Chemistry</h3>Our research clearly demonstrates that sample preparation time is a valuable commodity in analytical chemistry. By adopting efficient preparation techniques, laboratories can:<ol><li>Increase sample throughput</li><li>Improve result consistency and reliability</li><li>Allocate more time to critical thinking and analysis</li><li>Potentially reduce overall costs</li><li>Accelerate the pace of scientific discovery</li></ol>As analytical chemistry continues to advance, it's crucial not to overlook the foundational steps of the process. Investing in efficient sample preparation techniques, such as Organomation's blowdown evaporators, can unlock new levels of productivity and innovation in laboratory settings.By recognizing the true value of sample preparation time and taking steps to optimize this process, researchers can ensure they're making the most of their resources and pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery. Remember, in the world of analytical chemistry, time saved in sample preparation is time gained for critical thinking, data analysis, and advancing scientific knowledge. Take the first step towards optimizing your workflow by using Organomation's <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/evaporation-time-calculator">Evaporation Time Calculator today</a>.

How Ineffective Sample Preparation is Costing Academic Researchers

<h3>Determine if a Nitrogen Dryer is Faster Than Your Current Evaporation Method</h3>In laboratory workflows, sample preparation efficiency is critical to maintaining productivity and ensuring high-quality results. Evaporation is a key step in many analytical processes, from environmental testing to pharmaceutical research, yet it is often a bottleneck that slows down operations. If your current evaporation method is consuming too much time or yielding inconsistent results, it may be time to consider an alternative approach.Our Evaporation Time Calculator allows you to determine exactly how long it will take for your samples to dry down. By inputting basic information about your sample volume and solvent, you can receive an accurate time estimate and evaluate whether a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=3&amp;manufacturerItems=540">nitrogen evaporator</a> could enhance your lab’s workflow.<h4>Why Use an Evaporation Time Calculator?</h4>Evaporation time varies significantly depending on solvent properties, sample volume, and evaporation method. Many laboratories still rely on traditional methods such as air drying in the fume hood or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/manual-to-automated-solvent-drying-is-it-worth-the-switch?hsLang=en">manually drying singular samples with a stream of nitrogen</a>. These methods can be quite inefficient and lead to extended wait times between analysis steps. This calculator helps you:<ul><li>Estimate Evaporation Time with Accuracy: Entering a few key details about your test samples allows you to get a precise estimate of drying time.</li><li>Evaluate Your Current Method: Compare how long your evaporation process takes using conventional techniques versus with a nitrogen evaporator.</li><li>Improve Lab Scheduling: Knowing the expected evaporation time allows for better planning of experiments, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.</li></ul><h4>How the Calculator Works</h4>Our Evaporation Time Calculator takes only 1 minutes to complete, requiring only the necessary inputs about your sample type:<ol><li>Starting Solvent Volume: Specify the initial amount of solvent in mL that you have in each sample</li><li>Ending Solvent Volume: Indicate how much solvent in mL should remain after evaporation. This allows the calculator to determine how much solvent needs to be evaporated off in total.</li><li>Solvent Type: Choose from a list of commonly used solvents, each of which has unique evaporation characteristics that influence drying time.</li></ol>Once you enter this information, the calculator determines how much solvent must be removed and estimates the total time required for evaporation based on the solvent's evaporation rate.<h4>Understanding Evaporation Time Variables</h4>Several factors affect how long it takes for a solvent to fully evaporate, including:<ul><li>Solvent Volatility: Some solvents, such as acetone or methanol, evaporate much faster than high-boiling-point solvents like dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO).</li><li>Temperature &amp; Pressure Conditions: Higher temperatures and reduced pressure can accelerate evaporation, but not all labs have access to advanced heating or vacuum systems.</li><li>Evaporation Method: Passive evaporation or drying samples one at at time by hand can take significantly longer than methods using active nitrogen blowdown or heat-assisted drying.</li></ul><h4>Is a Nitrogen Evaporator Right for You?</h4>If the calculator reveals that your current evaporation process is taking longer than expected, switching to a nitrogen evaporator could drastically improve efficiency.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/article/5392"> Nitrogen blowdown evaporation</a> is a well-established method that directs a controlled stream of nitrogen gas onto the surface of the solvent, promoting rapid and uniform evaporation while minimizing contamination risks.Key Benefits of Nitrogen EvaporationAccelerated Evaporation: Reduces sample drying time compared to passive evaporation or manual methods.<ul><li>Reliable &amp; Consistent Results: Ensures uniform solvent removal, preventing sample loss or variability.</li><li>Better Sample Protection: Prevents oxidation, contamination, and temperature fluctuations that could affect sample integrity.</li><li>Adaptability for Different Sample Types: Works with microplates, tubes, and flasks, making it suitable for various applications.</li><li>Space-Saving &amp; Cost-Effective: Many nitrogen evaporators are compact and require minimal maintenance compared to bulkier alternatives.</li></ul><h4>Optimize Your Lab’s Workflow Today</h4>Slow evaporation times can hinder productivity, delay experiments, and increase operational costs. With our Evaporation Time Calculator, you can gain valuable insights into your current process and determine whether a nitrogen evaporator is the right investment for your lab.Find out how long it takes to dry down your samples—and discover how faster, more <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/types-of-laboratory-evaporators?hsLang=en">efficient evaporation methods</a> can help you save time and improve results.

How long will it take to evaporate your samples in a nitrogen evaporator?

<h4>Is a Nitrogen Evaporator Faster than your Current Sample Concentration Method?</h4>In laboratory environments where sample preparation is a daily task, every minute counts. Whether you’re working in environmental testing, pharmaceuticals, food safety, or chemical analysis, sample evaporation is a necessary but often time-consuming step in your workflow.If your current evaporation method is slowing down your productivity—whether it’s <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/manual-to-automated-solvent-drying-is-it-worth-the-switch?hsLang=en">evaporating samples by hand</a>, air drying in a fume hood, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/diy-evaporation-setups-vs.-professional-nitrogen-blowdown-systems-knowing-when-to-upgrade?hsLang=en">using a DIY setup</a>, or relying on an inefficient evaporator—you might be spending far more time than necessary on solvent removal.That’s where nitrogen evaporators come in. These systems use a steady stream of nitrogen gas and a gentle heat source to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/article/5392">accelerate solvent evaporation</a>, offering a faster, more controlled, and more efficient solution than alternative methods. But just how much time could you save?<h3>Try Our Time-Saving Calculator</h3>To help you understand the potential efficiency gains, we’ve created a Nitrogen Evaporation Time-Saving Calculator. By inputting details about your current evaporation process, such as solvent volume, sample throughput, and evaporation time, you can get a customized estimate of how much time you could be saving every day.<h3>Why Traditional Evaporation Methods Are Holding You Back</h3>Many labs still rely on slow, manual, or outdated evaporation techniques that waste technician hours and introduce inconsistencies in sample preparation. Here are some of the most common methods—and their drawbacks:<h4 style="font-size:20px;">1. Evaporating Samples One by One by Hand</h4>Manually monitoring each sample while waiting for solvent evaporation is tedious and inefficient. This method requires constant supervision, limiting the amount of work a technician can complete in a day. If your lab is handling multiple samples daily, the lost time quickly adds up.<h4 style="font-size:20px;">2. Air Drying in a Fume Hood</h4>While this is a simple and low-cost method, it is also one of the least efficient. Air drying can take hours or even days, depending on the solvent, solvent volume, and environmental conditions. Since it relies on passive airflow without the addition of a heat source, evaporation times can be inconsistent, and there is always a risk of contamination or sample loss due to open exposure.<h4 style="font-size:20px;">3. DIY Evaporation Setups</h4>Some labs attempt to create their own evaporation solutions using hot plates, Schlenk lines, fans, or other makeshift nitrogen setups. While these may work temporarily, they often lead to uneven evaporation, loss of volatile compounds, inconsistent results across samples, and gas leaks that waste nitrogen or compressed air.<h4 style="font-size:20px;">4. Using an Evaporator That Isn’t Optimized for Your Needs</h4>Even if your lab is using a sample evaporator, it may not be designed for your solvent type, batch size, or throughput requirements. Some evaporators work best for certain solvents but struggle with others, while others are limited by the number of samples they can process at one time. If your current evaporator isn’t properly suited for your workflow, you could still be wasting hours on unnecessary evaporation time.<h3>The Benefits of Nitrogen Evaporators</h3>Switching to a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=3&amp;manufacturerItems=540">nitrogen evaporator</a> can drastically improve lab efficiency by reducing solvent evaporation times and increasing sample throughput. Here’s how:<ul><li>Significantly Faster Evaporation – A steady stream of nitrogen paired with a gentle heat source speeds up solvent removal compared to air drying or manual evaporation, while keeping your samples safe.</li><li>Higher Sample Throughput – Process multiple samples at once, rather than evaporating them one at a time.</li><li>More Consistent Results – Avoid inconsistencies caused by passive or DIY evaporation methods. Nitrogen evaporators provide controlled, reproducible conditions for each sample.</li><li>Reduced Technician Workload – Free up lab personnel for more important tasks instead of spending hours monitoring evaporation.</li><li>Better Solvent Control – Minimize the risk of over-drying or losing volatile compounds, which can happen with passive drying or DIY methods.</li></ul><h3>Maximize Your Lab’s Efficiency Today</h3>Your lab’s time is valuable—why spend it on slow, inefficient evaporation methods? Instead of wasting technician hours on manual monitoring or unreliable setups, invest in a nitrogen evaporator that accelerates evaporation and improves consistency.To make sure the switch to a nitrogen evaporator makes sense for your lab, be sure to use our Time-Savings Calculator. Simply enter your current evaporation details and find out how that compares to the evaporation time you could expect from a nitrogen concentrator.Stop letting inefficient evaporation slow down your workflow—make the switch to nitrogen evaporation and optimize your lab’s productivity today!

How much time can I save drying my samples in a nitrogen evaporator?

<h3>A Deep Dive into Waters Oasis, Agilent Bond Elut, and Phenomenex Strata Workflows</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-solid-phase-extraction-spe">Solid phase extraction (SPE)</a> has become a widely used sample preparation technique across pharmaceutical, environmental, and food safety laboratories worldwide. SPE is used to separate and isolate analytes of interest from a matrix, utilizing the analytes' differential affinities between a solid stationary phase and a liquid mobile phase. The process involves four key steps: conditioning the solid phase; loading the sample onto the solid phase; washing the sample to remove interfering compounds; and eluting the analytes of interest. Following this, the now purified and concentrated sample will usually undergo further analysis such as GC-MS, LC-MS, or HPLC [1]. An often overlooked element within this method of sample preparation is the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/article/5392">nitrogen blowdown evaporation</a> that bridges SPE extraction and instrumental analysis. This discussion explores the critical role of nitrogen blowdown in enhancing the performance of three widely used SPE platforms: Waters Oasis, Agilent Bond Elut, and Phenomenex Strata.<h3>Why Nitrogen Blowdown Matters in SPE Workflows</h3>In the final step of SPE, elution, an organic solvent like methanol, acetonitrile, or acetone is used to remove the analytes of interest from the solid phase. This solvent must then be removed before <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-reconstitution">reconstitution</a> and analysis [1]. Nitrogen blowdown provides controlled, gentle evaporation that concentrates analytes while preventing thermal degradation and sample loss that can occur with other drying methods.<h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/215">Waters Oasis SPE</a>: Precision Evaporation for Enhanced Sensitivity</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products/215">Waters Oasis SPE cartridges</a> and plates are renowned for their broad analyte retention capabilities, in particular for polar compounds. Their SPE products consistently deliver consistent and pure quality for sample analysis [2]. Many of their protocols consistently emphasize the importance of proper solvent evaporation following elution [3].<h4>Critical Nitrogen Blowdown Steps in Oasis Protocols:</h4>In Waters' documented procedures for pesticide analysis, the protocol states: "Blow down the acetone extract with nitrogen to ca. 0.2 ml then make to 2 ml with pure water" [4]. This concentration step is essential for achieving the required detection limits of pesticide compounds like diuron and its metabolites. When using the Oasis HLB cartridges to process larger sample volumes (2 L versus 200 mL), the method requires: "Blow down the acetone extract with nitrogen to ca. 0.8 ml then make to 2 ml with pure water" [4]. This increased degree of sample pre-concentration dramatically enhances the analytical sensitivity and is particularly important when analyzing trace-level environmental contaminants. The Waters protocols emphasize that this evaporation step must be performed under controlled conditions to aid in the prevention of analyte loss, making nitrogen blowdown the preferred method over thermal evaporation techniques.<h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=bond+elut">Agilent Bond Elut</a>: Streamlined Workflows with Controlled Evaporation</h3>With over 40 different sorbent capabilities, Agilent's Bond Elut product line offers versatile solutions for a wide range of sample types and applications [5]. The company's method development guides consistently reference evaporation steps as critical for optimal results. Whether processing <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/environmental-sample-preparation">environmental samples</a>, pharmaceutical matrices, or targeting polar and nonpolar analytes, the evaporation step remains a consistently critical factor in ensuring a method's success [5].<h4>Nitrogen Evaporation in Bond Elut Protocol:</h4>For Bond Elut PPL applications targeting polar compounds found within drinking water, Agilent's protocol specifies: "Dry the eluent under in 35 °C water bath, then reconstitute with 2 mL 10:90 MeOH/H2O" [6]. This controlled evaporation at moderate temperature ensures complete solvent removal while maintaining analyte integrity. The Bond Elut methodology emphasizes that the nitrogen drying step is particularly important when transitioning from organic elution solvents to aqueous-based mobile phases for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/preparing-samples-for-lc-ms/ms-analysis">LC/MS/MS analysis</a> [6]. This solvent exchange is impossible without complete evaporation of the initial organic eluent.<h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=136&amp;manufacturerItems=50">Phenomenex Strata</a>: Advanced Polymeric Performance Enhanced by Proper Evaporation</h3>Phenomenex Strata products, particularly their <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=136&amp;manufacturerItems=50&amp;search=strata+x">Strata-X</a> polymeric phases, have revolutionized SPE through water-wettable sorbents designed to work effectively with aqueous-based solutions with a simplified protocol [7]. However, even these advanced materials require proper post-extraction handling to achieve optimal results.<h4>Strata-X Protocol Requirements:</h4>Phenomenex documentation for their Strata-X PRO plates specifically instructs: "Dry: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/article/5411">Evaporate the extract to dryness</a> under a gentle stream of nitrogen at room temperature" [8]. This room-temperature evaporation is particularly important for thermally labile compounds that might degrade under increased temperatures.<h4>Specialized Applications:</h4>For Strata Activated Carbon applications targeting nitrosamines and other polar analytes, the protocol requires: "Evaporate solvent under Nitrogen to required volume and reconstitute with Methylene Chloride" [9]. This controlled evaporation is essential for achieving the trace detection limits required for these potential carcinogens.The matrix removal technology within the Strata product line makes the nitrogen blowdown step even more critical. This step ensures complete removal of interfering matrix components from the eluent that could compromise downstream analysis [10].<h3>Technical Considerations for Optimal Results</h3><ul><li>Temperature Control: All three manufacturers emphasize controlled temperature during nitrogen evaporation. Waters and Agilent protocols frequently specify 35°C water baths, while Phenomenex often recommends room temperature evaporation [4, 6, 8].</li><li>Flow Rate Management: Gentle nitrogen flow is recommended across many manufacturers to reduce and prevent analyte loss through splashing or mechanical carryover. Excessive flow rates can lead to incomplete evaporation or sample loss.</li><li>Timing Optimization: Complete solvent removal is essential, but over-drying can lead to analyte degradation or potentially irreversible adsorption to container walls. Protocols typically specify evaporation "to dryness" or to specific volumes [4, 8].</li></ul><h3> A Nitrogen Blowdown Solution for the Leading SPE Platforms</h3>The importance of nitrogen blowdown in an SPE workflow has been well established. To support this critical step, Organomation offers the following solutions:<h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?manufacturerItems=540&amp;search=n-evap">N-EVAP Nitrogen Evaporator</a></h4><ul><li>Analyte Preservation: The gentle nitrogen blowdown helps preserve heat-sensitive analytes that may degrade when exposed to high temperatures.</li><li>Solvent Removal Flexibility: This system is compatible with a range of tube sizes, enabling researchers to process varying sample volumes tailored to specific laboratory needs.</li><li>Controlled Evaporation: Individual gas flow control at each sample position ensures precise and consistent sample preparation, which is essential for obtaining reliable data.</li><li>Temperature Control: Water bath models are available with a wide temperature range enabling optimization for use of different solvents needed for varying SPE sorbents.</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_45_Position_N_EVAP_Nitrogen_Evaporator_5_20078e3969.jpg" alt="Organomation: 45 Position N-EVAP Nitrogen Evaporator" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_45_Position_N_EVAP_Nitrogen_Evaporator_5_20078e3969.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="1400" height="1400"><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?manufacturerItems=540&amp;search=multivap">MULTIVAP Batch Evaporator</a></h4><ul><li>Batch Capability: Some systems can process up to 100 samples simultaneously, making them essential for large-scale laboratory operations.</li><li>Sample Standardization: Provides consistent evaporation conditions across samples, reducing sample variability which can skew interpretation.</li><li>Analyte Integrity: Gentle nitrogen dry down protects delicate analytes from degradation.</li><li>Efficiency: This system significantly reduces sample preparation time, allowing for faster results and turnaround time in clinical settings.</li></ul><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_48_Position_MULTIVAP_Nitrogen_Evaporator_2_b46408a225.jpg" alt="Organomation: 48 Position MULTIVAP Nitrogen Evaporator" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_48_Position_MULTIVAP_Nitrogen_Evaporator_2_b46408a225.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="1400" height="1400"><h4>Integration with Modern Laboratory Workflows</h4>Modern laboratories increasingly rely on automated nitrogen evaporation systems that can process multiple samples simultaneously while also maintaining precise control over temperature, flow rate, and timing. Additionally, these systems integrate seamlessly with the 96-well plate formats offered by all three manufacturers, enabling high-throughput sample preparation. The combination of advanced SPE materials from Waters, Agilent, and Phenomenex with controlled nitrogen blowdown creates a powerful sample preparation platform that delivers the sensitivity, reproducibility, and throughput required for today's analytical challenges.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Nitrogen blowdown is not merely an optional step in SPE workflows, it is a critical component that enables the full potential of Waters Oasis, Agilent Bond Elut, and Phenomenex Strata products. Nitrogen blowdown ensures optimal analyte concentration, solvent exchange, and method sensitivity through gentle evaporation. Its versatility makes it applicable to diverse fields, including environmental monitoring and pharmaceutical analysis.Laboratories investing in high-quality SPE products should equally prioritize incorporating proper nitrogen evaporation equipment and protocols to maximize their analytical capabilities and ensure consistent, reliable results. Organomation is a trusted provider of precision nitrogen evaporators, offering reliable solutions tailored to laboratory needs.

The Critical Role of Nitrogen Blowdown in SPE Sample Preparation

The evaporation of solvent after extraction and prior to analytical analysis is a crucial step in the isolation of desired analytes. Organomation’s nitrogen evaporators offer important features that make them well equipped for this essential stage in the sample preparation process.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Organomation_The_Role_of_Nitrogen_Evaporation_in_Solvent_Exchange_31697e7b03.jpg" alt="Organomation: The Role of Nitrogen Evaporation in Solvent Exchange" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Organomation_The_Role_of_Nitrogen_Evaporation_in_Solvent_Exchange_31697e7b03.jpg 237w," sizes="100vw" width="1080" height="712"><h4>What is Solvent Exchange?</h4>Solvent exchange is the process of replacing one solvent or solvent mixture with another, allowing for the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/what-is-reconstitution">reconstitution of the desired analyte</a> into a new solution 1. This technique is used across a wide range of laboratory applications and acts as the bridge between extraction and instrumental analysis.The solvent used in the extraction step is chosen for its high selectivity, immiscibility, and effectiveness in isolating target compounds from complex matrices. An example of this would be extracting a drug from the various components of blood, such as plasma, red and white blood cells, and platelets. This works by utilizing the differences in solubility between the target compounds and the other matrix components present.Once extraction is complete, the solvent layer is separated from the remaining components of the sample and dried, leaving behind the isolated analytes of interest. The last step in this process is the reconstitution of analytes in a new solvent. This new solvent is typically of high purity and is selected based on its compatibility with the instrumental analysis being used and the solubility of the analytes of interest.Common solvent pairs used for extraction followed by analysis include diethyl ether and methanol/ethanol, chloroform and methanol, hexane and ethyl acetate, and water and acetonitrile/methanol. In chromatography, the solvent exchange process is commonly used to improve peak integrity, resolution, and increase signal intensity by moving the analyte into a more ideal solvent. Overall, solvent exchange facilitates the use of specialized analysis instrumentation and optimizes reactions, making it a critical step in many laboratory procedures.<h4>Challenges in Traditional Solvent Exchange Methods</h4>The process of solvent exchange is important for accurate analysis and quantitation of the sample. Methods like rotary evaporation or manual evaporation are time-consuming and involve the risk of contamination or even sample loss 2. Heat-sensitive samples bring up issues of possible degradation or denaturation when improperly heated. Another challenge to note is that many traditional methods can have long sample processing times and lack scalability for larger throughput. Overall, the limitations of these methods can inhibit precision and reproducibility, which is why a nitrogen evaporator may be more useful 2.<h4>What is a Nitrogen Evaporator?</h4>A nitrogen evaporator is a tool which works by applying a steady stream of nitrogen gas just above the surface of the sample, gently pushing the vapor-saturated air out of the sample tube. This prevents it from returning to the remaining liquid and lowers the vapor pressure above the sample allowing excess solvent to evaporate more quickly 2. Organomation offers a wide range of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=3&amp;manufacturerItems=540">nitrogen blowdown evaporators</a> for many different sample sizes and applications, including the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=3&amp;manufacturerItems=540&amp;search=N-EVAP">N-EVAP</a> and the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?category=3&amp;manufacturerItems=540&amp;search=multivap">MULTIVAP</a>.<h4>Use of Nitrogen Evaporators in Solvent Exchange</h4>Nitrogen evaporators are widely utilized in analytical laboratories for solvent exchange due to their ability to enhance efficiency, maintain sample integrity, and improve safety during the evaporation process. The controlled use of nitrogen gas offers several advantages over traditional evaporation methods:<ol><li>Speed &amp; Efficiency: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/article/5385">Nitrogen accelerates solvent removal</a> by increasing the evaporation rate without requiring high temperatures.</li><li>Gentle Processing: The slight cooling of samples with nitrogen gas reduces thermal stress, making it ideal for heat-sensitive compounds. A gentle heating is also available for full control of solvent evaporation rate .</li><li>Minimized Contamination: Inert nitrogen atmosphere can help prevent oxidation that may occur within the sample. Faster evaporation also contributes to a r<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/preventing-sample-contamination-evaporation-system">eduction in sample contamination</a> .</li><li>Precision &amp; Consistency: Nitrogen evaporators are designed to handle multiple samples simultaneously and ensure <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.organomation.com/products/nitrogen-evaporators/multivap">uniform evaporation across all samples</a>.</li><li>Safety: This evaporator can reduce one’s exposure to harmful solvent vapors by directing them to a fume hood or vapor recovery system. Additionally, nitrogen is an inert, non-reactive, and non-flammable gas under normal conditions, making it a safer choice when handling hazardous or volatile materials .</li></ol><h4>Major Advantages Over other Evaporation Methods:</h4><ul><li>Less sample loss compared to vacuum or rotary evaporation (Learn more: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.organomation.com/blog/limitations-of-the-speedvac-and-centrifugal-evaporators">Limitations of the SpeedVac and Centrifugal Evaporators</a>). &nbsp;</li><li>Easier handling of small-volume samples.</li><li>Ability to evaporate volatile solvents quickly while reducing risk of bumping or splashing.</li><li>Delivers broad applicability, supporting multiple uses instead of being restricted to a single specialized application.</li></ul><h4>Common Laboratory Applications of Solvent Exchange</h4><ul><li>Pharmaceuticals: Evaluation of drug formulations for potency, bioavailability, and impurity content.</li><li>Environmental Testing: Preparation of water, air, and soil samples for testing of pesticides, fertilizers, and other contaminants.</li><li>Toxicology: Preparation of LLE, SPE, and SPME extracts for instrumental analysis 5.</li><li>Food Safety Testing: Extraction and concentration of food contaminants before analysis, with removal of unwanted fats, sugars, or proteins that can interfere with detection.</li></ul><h4>Conclusion</h4>In modern laboratories, efficient and reliable solvent exchange is essential for streamlined workflows and accurate analytical results. Nitrogen evaporators are a key player in this process, offering a fast, gentle, and contamination-free way to remove solvents without compromising sample integrity. Their ability to handle small volumes, protect heat-sensitive compounds, and improve laboratory safety makes them an indispensable tool across industries. For labs aiming to boost productivity and precision, investing in an Organomation nitrogen evaporator is not a luxury, but a lab necessity.Curious to know how fast your samples would dry down in a nitrogen evaporator? Try our evaporation time calculator today!

The Role of Nitrogen Evaporation in Solvent Exchange

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Organomation, founded in 1959, designs and manufactures high-quality nitrogen evaporators and extraction systems. Known for innovation and durability, their lab instruments are used globally for efficient sample preparation with strong customer support.

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