LCTech Automated Sample Clean-Up

Importance of Topic

Automated sample preparation and cleanup are fundamental in analytical workflows to ensure consistent, reproducible, and high-quality results across diverse applications. By integrating robotic platforms and standardized procedures, laboratories enhance throughput, reduce manual errors, and maintain rigorous quality assurance in fields ranging from food safety to environmental monitoring.

Objectives and Overview

LCTech aims to deliver versatile, modular solutions for automated sample cleanup, addressing evolving analytical demands. Key platforms include:

• FREESTYLE robotic system combining solid-phase extraction SPE, gel permeation chromatography GPC, and evaporation EVA
• DEXTech dedicated unit for polychlorinated biphenyl PCB and dioxin analysis with thermal clean-up modules
• Consumables for mycotoxin assays and QuEChERS workflows

Methodology

The approach leverages in-house instrumentation for development and validation:

• High-resolution double-focusing sector DFS mass spectrometer
• Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry LC-MS/MS
• Gas chromatography mass spectrometry GC-MS

Automated protocols streamline extraction, clean-up, concentration, and derivatization steps, ensuring compatibility with regulatory standards and a broad range of analytes.

Main Results and Discussion

Implementing LCTech systems has demonstrated:

• Improved sample throughput and workflow reproducibility
• High recovery rates for pesticides, mycotoxins, PFAS, PAHs, PCBs, dioxins, explosives, and pharmaceuticals
• Compliance with ISO 9001 2015, CE marking, and EU Machinery Directive
• Flexibility to adapt modules for emerging analytes and customized protocols

These findings highlight the robustness and adaptability of automated cleanup in complex matrices such as food, feed, water, air, and biological fluids.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Automated cleanup platforms offer:

• Reduced manual handling and operator exposure
• Consistent cleanup performance across batches
• Scalable solutions for routine QA QC and research environments
• Integration with existing laboratory workflows and compliance frameworks

Future Trends and Possibilities

Emerging developments may include:

• AI-driven method optimization and predictive maintenance
• Miniaturization of modules for on-site or decentralized analysis
• Expansion to novel contaminants such as microplastics and nanomaterials
• Enhanced automation for sample-to-report systems

Conclusion

LCTech automated sample cleanup solutions combine modular design, high-quality instrumentation, and rigorous quality management to meet the diverse needs of modern laboratories. Their versatile platforms support reliable, reproducible analytics and drive efficiency in routine and specialized applications.

Used Instrumentation

• High-resolution DFS mass spectrometer
• LC-MS/MS system
• GC-MS system
• FREESTYLE robotic SPE GPC EVA platform
• DEXTech thermal clean-up unit
• Vacuum concentrator D-EVA
• Photochemical derivatization UVE device
• Vacuum manifold EluVac
• SPE glass columns
• ELISA rapid test ErgoREAD