MultiPurpose Sampler MPS robotic series

Importance of the Topic

The efficient and reliable automation of sample preparation is critical in modern analytical chemistry laboratories.
It enhances throughput, reduces human error, and improves reproducibility and detection limits.
By integrating diverse preparation techniques into a single robotic platform, laboratories can handle complex workflows with greater flexibility and consistency.

Objectives and Overview

This application note reviews the MultiPurpose Sampler (MPS) robotic series from GERSTEL,
focusing on its modular design, wide range of sample preparation and introduction capabilities,
and the MAESTRO software that controls all modules in a unified sequence.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The MPS robotic system supports a broad array of preparation techniques, which can be summarized as follows:

• Universal Syringe Module (USM) for 1–1000 µL liquid handling, compatible with automated liner exchange and thermal desorption.
• Preparative Syringe Module (PSM) for large-volume injections up to 5 mL.
• Headspace, Dynamic Headspace (DHS), and SPME modules, including automated fiber exchange and thermal desorption.
• Thermal Desorption Unit (TDU) and Tube Spiking System (TSS) for adsorbent tube conditioning, desorption, and standard addition.
• Online SPE (SPExos) and Dispersive SPE (DPX) for automated clean-up and preconcentration.
• Solvent Filling Station (SFS), Multi-Position Evaporation Station (mVAP), and QuickMix for automated solvent management, concentration, and mixing.
• Filtration, centrifugation, and pyrolysis/PyroVial options for robust sample processing workflows.
• GERSTEL MAESTRO software enabling intuitive method setup, scheduling, and parallel preparation and analysis.

Used Instrumentation

• GERSTEL MPS robotic and MPS WorkStation platforms
• Universal and Preparative Syringe Modules (USM, PSM)
• Thermal Desorption Units (TDU 2, TDU 3.5+), Thermal Extraction and Pyrolysis modules
• Automated Liner Exchange (ALEX) and Tube Spiking System (TSS)
• Dynamic Headspace (DHS) Large and single-sample modules
• SPE, SPExos, DPX consumables and modules
• Solvent Filling Station (SFS), Multi-Position Evaporation Station (mVAP), QuickMix module
• Agilent 7890/8890 GC or equivalent GC/MS systems and LC/MS instruments

Main Results and Discussion

Automated sampling and preparation using the MPS robotic significantly improved laboratory throughput and analytical performance.
Key findings include:

• Extended sample capacity with modular trays enabling parallel headspace, SPME, and liquid injection workflows.
• Enhanced detection limits through optimized transfer techniques, leading to cleaner baselines and lower carryover.
• Flexible method adaptation via automated syringe and module exchange during a run.
• Seamless integration of sample preparation and analysis, minimizing downtime through the PrepAhead function.
• Robust performance demonstrated across various matrices, including environmental, food safety, pharmaceutical, and forensic applications.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The MPS robotic platform offers:

• Scalable automation strategies for routine QC, high-throughput screening, and research & development.
• Reduction of manual handling errors and improved traceability via barcode-driven workflows.
• Capability to process thousands of samples with minimal operator intervention.
• Customizable configurations for specific application needs, such as flavor and fragrance analysis, environmental monitoring, and metabolomics.
• Cost and time savings through minimized reagent use and automated maintenance reminders.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Future advances in sample preparation robotics are likely to include increased miniaturization,
AI-driven method optimization, real-time system diagnostics, and greener solvent-free techniques.
Integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and cloud-based analytics will further streamline workflows.
Potential developments may also focus on expanding compatibility with novel sample formats and enhancing multi-modal analysis capabilities.

Conclusion

The GERSTEL MPS robotic series represents a versatile and modular solution for automating complex sample preparation and introduction tasks.
Its broad instrumentation options and unified MAESTRO software enable laboratories to achieve higher throughput,
improved reproducibility, and lower limits of detection across a wide range of analytical applications.

References

No references were included in the original text.