GERSTEL Multi-Position Evaporation Station mVAP

Importance of the Topic

Automated solvent evaporation and sample concentration are pivotal steps in modern analytical workflows, enabling lower detection limits, improved method sensitivity and reproducibility. By integrating these processes into a single automated platform, laboratories enhance throughput, reduce manual handling errors and minimize operator exposure to hazardous solvents.

Objectives and Overview of the Article

This document presents the GERSTEL Multi-Position Evaporation Station (mVAP), an optional module for the GERSTEL MultiPurpose Sampler (MPS). The mVAP performs fully automated solvent evaporation and exchange for up to six samples in parallel, supporting batch sizes of up to 240 standard autosampler vials. It enables precise control of temperature, vacuum and agitation to maximize analyte recovery under mild conditions.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The mVAP is integrated into the GERSTEL MPS and controlled via the MAESTRO PrepBuilder software. A single method file and sequence table manage all steps from sample preparation through GC/MS or LC/MS injection.

Instrumentation Used

• GERSTEL MultiPurpose Sampler (MPS) with mVAP evaporation station
• MAESTRO PrepBuilder software for sequence and method control
• Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS) systems for analysis

Main Results and Discussion

The mVAP demonstrates consistent, reproducible sample concentration with minimal analyte loss. Parallel evaporation of up to six samples reduces overall cycle times, while controlled solvent exchange improves chromatography and ionization efficiency in GC/MS and LC/MS. The system accommodates diverse sample cleanup techniques—solid-phase extraction (SPE), dispersive SPE (DPX), liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), membrane-assisted solvent extraction (MASE), centrifugation and filtration—without manual intervention.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Improved detection limits and analytical sensitivity through precise concentration control
• Automated solvent exchange for optimized chromatographic performance
• High throughput via parallel processing of six samples and PrepAhead scheduling
• Reduced operator exposure using sealed vial handling and automated workflows
• Elimination of manual transfers, minimizing contamination risks and labor costs

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Upcoming developments may include further integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), advanced robotics for fully walk-away operation, real-time monitoring of evaporation parameters and coupling with high-resolution mass spectrometers. Such enhancements will drive even greater automation, data integrity and laboratory efficiency.

Conclusion

The GERSTEL mVAP offers a robust, fully automated solution for solvent evaporation and exchange, seamlessly integrating with GC/MS and LC/MS workflows. Its precise control over key parameters ensures reproducible, high-sensitivity analyses, making it a valuable asset for research, quality control and high-throughput analytical laboratories.