A PC-controlled module system for automatic sample preparation and analysis

A simple automatic analytical system, consisting of separate modules, for liquid chromatography has been constructed. The different parts of the automatic machine are an auto sampler, an auto dispenser, a selector valve with eight channels, a heater/cooler, a mixing chamber and a pressure air driven injector valve. The process was controlled by a PC from an easily changeable run protocol. The system was applied to analysis of primary amines. The analysis was performed as a pre-column derivatization reaction of the amines and separation by isocratic reversed-phase HPLC with fluorescent detection. Reproducibility and analytical precision have been studied. Comparison between automatically and manually made derivatization reaction and injection was also made. The automatic system was easy to handle, cost-effective and gave good reproducibility.