Biotage Horizon 5000 Automated Disk Extraction System

Importance of the topic

Solid phase extraction (SPE) using automated disk systems is critical for isolating trace analytes from large-volume samples with high precision and throughput. Automated workflows reduce manual errors and ensure reproducible results, supporting applications in environmental monitoring, food safety, pharmaceutical quality control and regulatory compliance.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note presents the Biotage Horizon 5000, a three-position automated disk extraction platform designed to condition disks, load samples (40 mL–2 L) and elute analytes without operator intervention. The system aims to streamline sample preparation, optimize recovery and precision, and accommodate diverse SPE methods with minimal setup.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Horizon 5000 is built around modular extraction units controlled via a visual, icon-driven software interface. Key features include

• Three extraction positions per module, with up to four modules per PC for parallel processing of up to 12 samples
• Support for seven solvents stored atop the unit, analogous to HPLC solvent racks, enabling flexible method development
• Fast Flow Disk Holder and prefilters for handling particulates and preventing emulsions
• Internal pumps that operate only as needed for quiet operation
• Inline detection sensors that pause runs upon detecting anomalies, preventing sample loss
• Optional barcode reader for automated sample identification and a Vapor Shield for vapor containment or inert-gas blanketing

Main Results and Discussion

Evaluation with Atlantic SVOC and Pacific Oil & Grease disks demonstrated high analyte recoveries and excellent precision across multiple sample matrices. Automated rinsing of original sample vessels meets regulatory requirements and minimizes cross-contamination. The system’s modular design ensures consistent performance at high throughput without compromising recovery.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• High throughput: process up to 12 samples in parallel, reducing time-to-result for routine analyses
• Robust handling of complex samples with particulates or emulsions
• Reduced manual transfers by using original sample bottles, minimizing contamination risk
• Flexible method customization through adjustable flow rates, disk chemistries and solvent combinations
• Comprehensive reporting and LIMS integration for traceable data management

Future Trends and Opportunities

Future enhancements may include integration of real-time sensors and AI-driven method optimization to further improve recoveries and reduce solvent use. Expansion of disk chemistries and miniaturized formats could extend applications to bioanalysis and metabolomics. Enhanced connectivity for remote monitoring and control will support decentralized testing and smart laboratory environments.

Conclusion

The Biotage Horizon 5000 Automated Disk Extraction System delivers a robust, flexible and user-friendly SPE solution for large-volume sample preparation. Its combination of modular design, visual control software and comprehensive automation meets the evolving needs of analytical laboratories seeking high throughput and reliable performance.

References

Biotage Horizon 5000 Automated Disk Extraction System, Literature Number: PPS517, Biotage 2019.