Preparation is a very important step in most analytical techniques. Most techniques are not responsive to a target analyte in its in-situ form, and often the results are distorted by interfering species. Good sample preparation is key to obtaining good data.

Among many techniques, sample preparation may involve:

• Dissolution
• Extraction
• Reaction with some chemical species
• Digestion
• Filtration
• Dilution
• Sub-sampling
• Chelation

Fortunately, all of this can be done at ASET and we provide training and consultation for free to the UAA community!

ASET maintains an array of specialized equipment for sample preparation that can be used to analyze a diverse array of matrices. These include: tissue, plasma, soil, sediment, and water. Please contact us with questions if you don’t see what you’re looking for.

ASET contains the following to assist with sample preparation:

Accelerated Solvent Extraction (ASE) (Dionex ASE200 and ASE350) This automated system provides rapid extractions of both major constituents and trace contaminates found in tissue and soil samples. Typical methods run on the ASE require 10 times less solvent than classical methods and can be completed much more quickly.

Microwave Digestion System (Milestone ETHOZ EZ) This digestion system is equipped with Teflon vessels and uses automated temperature and pressure programs for digestion. It is used for total digestion and extractions of rock, tissue and plant materials.