TurboVap - Second Generation Solvent Evaporators

Significance of the Topic

Efficient and controlled solvent evaporation is a critical step in many analytical chemistry workflows. It influences sample concentration, recovery, and throughput across environmental, pharmaceutical, clinical and food laboratories. Advanced evaporators that combine speed, precision and flexibility help laboratories achieve reproducible results and optimize downstream analyses.

Objectives and Overview of the Document

This summary covers the second generation TurboVap® solvent evaporator platform by Biotage. Building upon the proven gas vortex shearing technology of the original TurboVap, the new models incorporate user-driven improvements. Key goals include modularity, expanded sample capacity, enhanced visibility, simplified maintenance and compatibility with a broad range of vessels and solvents.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

The TurboVap platform employs patented gas vortex shearing to create a high-velocity gas flow on the liquid surface, accelerating evaporation without localized heating. Four instrument configurations address different throughput requirements:

• TurboVap II: Six-position system for 50–200 mL tubes with automatic end-point sensors.
• TurboVap LV: Multi-rack system supporting 24 or 48 vessels from 1.5 mL to 60 mL with independent gas flow per row.
• TurboVap EH: Seamless transfer from Biotage Extrahera racks, handling 48 tubes up to 18 × 75 mm.
• TurboVap P+: Direct integration with Biotage PRESSURE+ 48 manifold workflow.

A 7-inch touch screen provides method programming for evaporation flow gradients and ramp/step changes. The illuminated glass water bath, removable nozzles, exchangeable manifolds and accessible drain port enhance usability. Optional PTFE-coated manifolds and treated nozzles support aggressive acids and bases. Compatible solvents include common organics (acetone, acetonitrile, toluene, etc.) and aqueous acids.

Main Results and Discussion

The second generation TurboVap delivers:

• Modular racks and manifolds for rapid reconfiguration between sample sizes and formats.
• Independent gas flow control to fine-tune evaporation rates row by row.
• Improved visibility and nozzle adjustability during operation.
• Compact footprint for bench or fume hood installation.
• Automatic end-point detection (TurboVap II) for unattended operations.

Performance tests indicate consistent recovery and reduced processing times compared to legacy systems. Acid-resistant variants maintain performance with corrosive reagents.

Benefits and Practical Applications

By streamlining evaporation workflows, TurboVap enhances sample throughput and reproducibility. Integration with SPE cleanup, Biotage Extrahera extraction and PRESSURE+ enables end-to-end automation. Labs focusing on pesticide analysis, drug screening, environmental contaminants or food safety benefit from flexible vessel compatibility and precise control.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging opportunities include:

• Connectivity with laboratory information management systems for automated method transfer.
• Enhanced sensor suites for real-time monitoring of solvent composition.
• Further miniaturization to support micro-scale sample preparation.
• Machine-learning driven optimization of evaporation parameters.
• Expanded chemical resistance for exotic or high-temperature solvents.

Conclusion

The second generation TurboVap platform addresses modern laboratory demands for flexibility, speed and reliability in solvent evaporation. Its modular design, advanced control features and broad solvent compatibility make it a versatile tool for analytical and process chemistry applications.

References

• TurboVap LV Product Note (PPS440)
• TurboVap II Product Note (PPS442)