PAL LSI - Robust and Reliable Sample Handling

Significance of the topic

The accurate and reproducible handling of liquid samples is critical in modern analytical laboratories for reliable quantitation, high throughput and compliance with quality standards. The PAL LSI system addresses these needs by offering robust hardware and software integration to streamline sample preparation, injection and tracking across large batches of samples.

Objectives and Study Overview

This document presents an overview of the PAL LSI autosampler, highlighting its design features, performance metrics and modular flexibility. The aim is to demonstrate how innovative drive technology, fast injection cycles and comprehensive software control enhance productivity and ensure safe, precise liquid handling in both GC and LC applications.

Methodology and Instrumentation used

The PAL LSI combines a robotic XYZ transport mechanism with syringe-based liquid handling and optional temperature-controlled modules. Key elements include:

• Drive technology for vial detection and needle position monitoring to prevent misinjections and needle bending
• Fast injection capability down to 100 ms cycle time, minimizing discrimination up to C40/C20 ratios
• Liquid handling sequences with air gaps for sandwiching internal standards and solvents, supporting volumes from 1.2 µL to 100 µL
• Optional modules such as Peltier stacks, wash modules (standard, large and fast), solvent addition, vortex mixer, agitator and barcode reader
• PAL Sample Control software for schedule optimization, user-level management, method editing and integration with major CDS and MS platforms

Main Results and Discussion

Performance tests under defined conditions showed excellent precision and linearity:

• LC injections (20–100 µL) achieved repeatability below 0.15 % RSD and correlation coefficients above 0.9999
• GC split/splitless injections of alkanes yielded RSDs below 0.60 % and linearity above 0.9999
• Fast injections of 100 ms provided discrimination ratios of C40/C20 above 0.98

The integrated system control and automated scheduling reduced idle time between injections, significantly increasing throughput compared to manual operation.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The PAL LSI enhances laboratory workflows by:

• Supporting up to 648 × 2 mL vials or multiple microtiter plates for high-capacity runs
• Maintaining precise temperature control during sample storage and preparation
• Reducing carry-over with specialized wash modules and rinse routines
• Ensuring traceability via barcode reading and error detection features
• Providing a unified software platform that simplifies method development and routine sequence management

Future Trends and Potential Applications

As analytical demands grow, combining autosampling with inline sample preparation (e.g., derivatization, extraction) and real-time data analytics will further streamline workflows. Advances in smart scheduling, predictive maintenance and AI-driven method optimization are expected to enhance system uptime and data quality. Integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and cloud-based analytics will expand remote operation and collaborative data sharing.

Conclusion

The PAL LSI autosampler represents a versatile and reliable solution for high-throughput liquid handling in both GC and LC environments. Its combination of precise syringe control, fast injection cycles and modular expandability meets the evolving needs of analytical laboratories, improving reproducibility, safety and overall productivity.

Reference

CTC Analytics AG. PAL LSI – Robust and Reliable Sample Handling, Application Brochure, November 2014.