Automation of Sample Preparation Steps using a Robotic X-Y-Z Coordinate Autosampler with Software Control

Automation of Sample Preparation Using a Robotic X-Y-Z Coordinate Autosampler

Importance of the topic

Automation of sample preparation is crucial to handle growing sample volumes and to ensure data quality and consistency in analytical chemistry laboratories.

Objectives and Study Overview

The paper presents the application of a single Gerstel MPS robotic autosampler combined with MAESTRO software to automate diverse sample preparation steps—derivatization, internal standard addition, saponification, esterification, analytical weighing, filtration, SPE, and Twister back extraction—within GC and HPLC workflows.

Used Instrumentation

• Gerstel MPS 2 XL robotic autosampler
• MAESTRO control software
• Sartorius ME614S integrated analytical balance
• 96-well filtration and collection plates
• Twister stir-bar sorptive extraction device
• 32-position heated tray for saponification/esterification
• Serial valve drive, programmable agitator, dilutor, and GC/HPLC injectors

Main Results and Discussion

• Analytical weighing showed high precision (mean sample addition 4.941 g, SD 0.011 g, CV 0.224%; internal standard addition mean 0.240 g, SD 0.000 g, CV 0.181%).
• Automated 96-well filtration enabled efficient extraction, filtration, and direct injection of extracts.
• Twister back extraction workflow controlled desorption parameters and facilitated direct HPLC injection.
• SPE automation with evaporative concentration and reconstitution, using the “Prep Ahead” feature, reduced batch time from 24 h to ~14 h.
• Parallel saponification and esterification of 32 samples reduced total prep time from 55 h to 6 h.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Single-platform automation eliminates the need for multiple dedicated instruments and control software.
• Improved throughput and reproducibility via overlapping preparation with analysis.
• Windows-based setup without macro programming simplifies method development.
• Seamless integration into GC/LC systems or standalone benchtop workstations.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advances are anticipated in AI-driven method optimization, expansion of automated techniques, miniaturized workflows, and integration with laboratory information management systems for end-to-end traceability.

Conclusion

The Gerstel MPS autosampler paired with MAESTRO software, complemented by novel prep functions and new hardware accessories, offers a versatile, high-throughput platform for comprehensive automation of sample preparation in analytical laboratories.

References

Foster F., Stuff J.R., Pfannkoch E. Automation of Sample Preparation Steps using a Robotic X-Y-Z Coordinate Autosampler with Software Control, Gerstel AppNote 5/2008