Automated Dynamic Headspace (DHS) is available for the GERSTEL MultiPurpose Sampler (MPS). The DHS station efficiently extracts and concentrates VOCs from liquid or solid samples placed in standard Headspace vials. The sample is thermostated and agitated while the headspace is purged with a controlled flow of inert gas, providing controlled and efficient extraction conditions. Sample temperatures can be selected from 10 °C to 200 °C. Lowering the temperature provides a means of reducing the amount of water vapor released and ultimately retrapped. The DHS station additionally holds a replaceable adsorbent- or sorbent filled tube used for analyte concentration. The temperature of the adsorbent tube during the DHS process can be varied from 20 °C to 70 °C for optimal trapping of the analytes in question.

Adsorbent tubes used are standard GERSTEL Thermal Desorption Unit (TDU) tubes. Following analyte concentration, the tube is automatically transferred to the TDU for Thermal Desorption and analyte transfer to the GC. Tubes are fitted with individual adapters enabling both automated movement and leak-free sealing during the DHS and Thermal Desorption steps and during storage in the autosampler tray.

Automated DHS combined with sample introduction to a GC or GC/MS system is performed by the MPS and TDU. Up to 98 samples can be processed automatically in one sequence.

Parallel processing of samples enable the DHS process to be performed during the chromatographic run of the preceding sample for optimal productivity and for highest system utilization.

Automated liquid handling in the MPS can be used for additional sample prep steps. As part of the sample prep procedure, standard addition can be performed automatically for best possible analytical results.

Sample prep steps are selected by mouse-click from a pull-down menu using the PrepBuilder function of the GERSTEL MAESTRO software.

A graphical scheduler display for the DHS process provides an overview of the time required for each individual step and for the complete sequence of samples for easier planning.

Just one method and one sequence table controls the complete process from DHS through sample prep and sample introduction to GC/MS analysis. Integrated control ensures a more efficient operation with less risk of error. The GERSTEL MAESTRO Software operates stand-alone or fully integrated with the Agilent Technologies ChemStation Software.

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