Agilent 8697 Headspace Sampler - Data Sheet

Importance of the topic

Headspace sampling is a key technique for analyzing volatile and semi-volatile compounds in pharmaceuticals, food, environmental and forensic laboratories. Precise control of sample equilibration, transfer and injection parameters directly affects data quality, reproducibility and throughput.

Objectives and study overview

This summary outlines the design and performance evaluation of Agilent’s 8697-XL tray and 8697 headspace samplers. Key goals:

• Assess chromatographic performance including area repeatability and carryover.
• Evaluate throughput enhancements via advanced sampling modes and overlapping algorithms.
• Demonstrate integration with Agilent GCs and data systems for streamlined workflows.

Methodology

The samplers employ electronic pneumatic control (EPC) to manage vial pressurization, loop filling and transfer line flow with high accuracy. Chemical inertness across flow paths, precision temperature control (ambient+5 °C to 300 °C), and an adaptive overlapping algorithm support multiple extraction modes: single extraction, multiple headspace extraction (up to 100 cycles), and multiple headspace concentration. Integrated vial shakers and optional barcode reading automate equilibration and sample tracking. Remote operation via GC touchscreen and browser interface enables real-time monitoring and event logging.

Instrumentation

• Agilent 8697-XL tray headspace sampler (120-vial capacity) and 8697 headspace sampler (48-vial capacity)
• Agilent 8890, 8860 or Intuvo 9000 Gas Chromatograph with EPC
• UltiMetal Plus deactivated stainless steel sample probe and loop (1 mL standard; optional loops 0.025–5 mL)
• Agilent J&W DB-ALC2 column (30 m × 0.32 mm, 1.2 µm) and FID detector
• OpenLAB CDS, MassHunter or ChemStation data systems

Main results and discussion

Testing with ethanol in water demonstrated area repeatability better than 0.7% RSD and carryover below 0.0001%. Adaptive sample overlapping and multiple headspace modes significantly reduce cycle times while preserving uniform heating. Automated leak checks, probe purges and event logging ensure sample integrity. Integrated GC communication and method wizards streamline method development and reduce risk of operator error.

Benefits and practical applications

• High reproducibility for quantification of volatiles in QA/QC and research settings
• Ultra-low carryover enabling trace analysis in environmental and pharmaceutical samples
• Flexible vial handling and automated workflows support high-throughput laboratories
• Remote control and graphical status displays enhance productivity and method traceability

Future trends and applications

Emerging trends include integration of machine learning for predictive maintenance and method optimization, cloud-based data analytics, and coupling headspace sampling with multidimensional GC or mass spectrometry. Development of miniaturized modules and greener sample handling protocols will further expand applications in on-site and field analysis.

Conclusion

Agilent’s 8697 series headspace samplers set a new benchmark in precision, flexibility and integration. Their advanced pneumatic and thermal control, combined with automated workflows and remote monitoring, address the demands of modern laboratories for reliable, high-throughput volatile analysis.