LCTech DEXTech Plus

Significance of the Topic

Automated sample preparation for dioxin and PCB analysis addresses critical demands in food safety, environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance. High-throughput laboratories require reliable, efficient and cost‐effective workflows to handle diverse matrices such as food, feed, soils and biological fluids. Innovations that minimize solvent consumption, reduce cross‐contamination and ensure reproducible recoveries directly support quality assurance in public health and environmental protection.

Objectives and Study Overview

This whitepaper introduces the DEXTech Plus automated sample preparation system, designed to streamline cleanup of extracts with up to 5 g fat content. The goals include demonstrating accelerated processing times, flexible method configuration, low per‐sample costs and strict adherence to EPA and European regulations for dioxins and PCBs.

Methodology and Instrumentation Used

The DEXTech Plus employs a modular three‐column design that can be configured with a SMART or Universal fat separation column, an aluminium oxide or Florisil column, and a reusable carbon column. Key components include:

• Touch‐screen interface with password‐protected method library
• Syringe pump and automated sample loading with vial rinse for quantitative transfer
• Patented locking mechanism for tool‐free column exchange
• Pressure and overflow sensors, leakage detection and closed waste management for user safety

Standard and user‐defined methods are stored in the system, enabling both EPA‐compliant defaults and full parameterisation.

Main Results and Discussion

The system processes a single sample from raw extract in approximately 35 minutes, achieving up to 3,500 runs per year on a single unit, or 14,000 runs with four parallel systems. Solvent volumes are minimized through efficient column use and automated rinsing. Recovery studies conducted by independent governmental laboratories confirmed low background interference, sharp fraction separation and excellent analyte recoveries, including high‐mass congeners such as BDE 209.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Substantial time savings compared with manual cleanup workflows
• Reduced solvent and consumable costs via reusable carbon columns and minimal waste generation
• Enhanced safety from closed‐system operation and comprehensive sensor monitoring
• Adaptability to various sample types in food, feed, environmental and clinical laboratories

Future Trends and Opportunities

Further integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and expansion of multi‐analyte fractionation protocols can enhance traceability and throughput. Miniaturization of column chemistries and development of green solvents promise even lower environmental impact. Advances in remote monitoring and AI‐assisted method optimization may further streamline quality control processes.

Conclusion

The DEXTech Plus represents a significant advancement in automated cleanup for dioxin and PCB analysis, delivering rapid processing, flexible configuration and robust safety features. Its high throughput, low cost per sample and regulatory compliance make it well suited for modern analytical laboratories seeking both performance and sustainability.

References

• Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority (LGL Oberschleißheim), Governmental Laboratory Validation Studies.
• Chemical and Veterinary Investigation Office Münsterland-Emscher-Lippe, Method Performance Reports.
• LCTech GmbH. DEXTech Plus Product Brochure, P/N 15309, February 2017.