Samples Preparation development

The diversity of environmental research topics and the variety of different sample matrices required top expertise in sample preparation techniques, knowledge in analytical, organic and inorganic chemistry, and using the most advanced tools for extraction, clean-up, concentration and separation of environmental contaminants.

The hydrochemistry laboratory researchers have a rich experience in sample preparation methods development. Our knowledge in analytical and organic chemistry allows us to understand and forecast a suitable procedure for each type of sample matrix, and to optimize the methods efficiently and quickly. It is not rare for us to explore and invent new procedures for samples preparation, which are often used for the first time in academic research.

For environmental samples, it is our routine to use a variety of solid phase extraction (SPE) procedures for trace level analytes concentration, samples clean-up or extraction from water matrix. Several evaporation techniques, like rotor-evaporation or TurboVap are usually common for us to use.

Analytes extraction is one of the challenging procedures of samples preparation. The hydrochemistry laboratory researchers using some traditional techniques, like ultra-sonic baths, centrifuges and automatic shakers, together with some advanced equipment, such as the Accelerated Solvent Extractor (ASE). This simple but unique instrument, combining high pressure and temperature to extract chemical compounds from solid matrices. The ASE fully automated extraction technique is very robust, time saving, and allows to implement a verity of methods for extracting pollutants from environmental samples, like soil, sludge, plants, vegetables, biological organisms and more.