Biotage® ACT Plate Adapter - Care and Use Instructions

Significance of the Topic

High-throughput evaporative concentration often leads to well-to-well cross contamination, compromising sample integrity in analytical workflows. The Biotage ACT Plate Adapter addresses this challenge by directing gas flow into individual wells and minimizing solvent splatter and gaseous eddies.

Study Objectives and Overview

This document outlines the design, compatibility, operational guidelines, and maintenance procedures for the Biotage ACT Plate Adapter to ensure reliable, contamination-free evaporation in 96-well plate formats.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Used Instrumentation:

• Biotage ACT Plate Adapter with chimney design
• TurboVap 96 Dual evaporator in straight-needle configuration
• 1 mL and 2 mL square-well collection plates (Biotage p n 121-5202 and 121-5203)

Operational Methodology:

• Align and seal adapter onto collection plate using disposable gloves
• Optimize gas flow at 40 L per minute and temperature at 40 degrees Celsius
• Set evaporator needle height: for 1 mL plates position needles about 2 mm above chimneys; for 2 mL plates penetrate chimneys by about 2 mm
• Limit fill volumes to 0.75 mL in 1 mL wells and 1.5 mL in 2 mL wells
• Clean adapter after each use by rinsing with deionized water, soaking in methanol, drying with compressed air, then storing in a sealed bag
• Replace adapter after approximately 250 evaporation cycles or upon any sign of damage

Key Findings and Discussion

Performance tests show that chimney-guided gas flow effectively reduces cross-talk by channeling vapors away from neighboring wells and decreasing the open surface area exposed to solvent residues. Under the recommended settings, evaporation is uniform with minimal solvent creep.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Enhanced sample integrity and reduced risk of contamination
• Broad solvent, acid, and base compatibility due to anodized aluminum construction
• Simple, tool-free installation and removal with minimal risk of splashing
• Cost-effective maintenance and long operational life with routine cleaning

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging opportunities include adapting the adapter design for angled-needle evaporators, integrating with automated liquid handling systems, developing advanced solvent-resistant materials, and incorporating sensors for real-time evaporation monitoring.

Conclusion

The Biotage ACT Plate Adapter provides a robust solution for minimizing cross contamination during evaporative concentration in 96-well formats. Adherence to the provided guidelines ensures consistent, high-throughput sample preparation with improved data reliability.