Sample Preparation
The accuracy and efficiency of chemical analysis heavily rely on proper sample preparation. Our applications contain articles, protocols, and troubleshooting guides that cover analytical sample preparation. Some of these resources demonstrate the usage of specific products, while others focus on particular substances or environments. Many of them are comprehensive, providing detailed step-by-step instructions for purifying a specific substance from a specific matrix using a designated product. Additionally, many of these resources offer supplementary guidelines for analysis using GC, HPLC, LC-MS, and various other analytical methods
Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)
Solid phase extraction (SPE) is a technique designed to quickly and selectively prepare and purify samples before conducting chromatographic analysis, such as HPLC, GC, or TLC. In SPE, one or more analytes from a liquid sample are isolated by being extracted, partitioned, and/or adsorbed onto a solid stationary phase.
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Solid Phase Microextraction (SPME)
Solid phase microextraction (SPME) is an innovative and highly sensitive sample preparation technology that does not require solvents. Operating on the principles of adsorption/absorption and desorption, SPME employs a coated fiber to concentrate volatile and semi-volatile compounds from the sample.
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QuEChERS Sample Preparation Method
QuEChERS is a dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) technique utilized in sample preparation. Its acronym, standing for 'Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe,' was originally created for analyzing pesticide residues in fruit and vegetable samples. Over time, this method has been adapted to examine other chemical classes such as PAHs, PCBs, PBDEs, and flame retardants. Its introduction dates back to 2002, and it is now officially specified in methods by the Association of Analytical Communities (AOAC 2007.01) and the European Committee for Standardization (EN 15662:2008).
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Sample Preparation by Filtration
Filtration is a separation method employed to concentrate or purify substances by exploiting their physical or chemical properties. It is a straightforward and commonly used technique in laboratories to eliminate insoluble particles from solutions and prepare samples for analysis. By reducing sample complexity, enhancing clarity of viscous samples, and minimizing background signals, filtration leads to improved signal-to-noise ratios in analytical tests.
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Sample Purification
Numerous chemical and physical purification techniques can be employed to separate or concentrate a specific analyte before conducting analysis. These methods encompass absorption, adsorption, chromatography, distillation, extraction, ion exchange, filtration, complex formation, crystallization, drying, and others. Preparing the sample prior to analysis is essential to make it compatible with the analytical technique, simplify the sample by removing interfering impurities, and concentrate the target analyte. Proper sample preparation also helps prevent clogging, potentially reduces the necessity for rigorous washing steps, and can prolong the lifespan of the chromatographic medium.
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