Automated device for continuous stirring while sampling in liquid chromatography systems.

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Laboratory Automation
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) is a widely used analytical technique.
• Many laboratory experiments require continuous sample stirring for accurate kinetic analysis.
• Integrating stirring directly into UPLC systems presents a challenge for automation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an innovative device for continuous sample stirring inside UPLC systems.
• To enable automated experimental setups that necessitate sample agitation.
• To provide a low-cost, easily modifiable solution using 3D printing.

Main Methods:

• A novel device was designed to replace the standard UPLC sample holder.
• The device utilizes standard magnetic stirring bars and battery operation.
• Construction involved 3D printing and commercially available components for affordability and accessibility.
• Device functionality was validated through video analysis and kinetic studies of a dynamic combinatorial library sensitive to agitation.

Main Results:

• The device successfully enabled continuous stirring of samples within the UPLC system.
• Video analysis confirmed the stirring mechanism's effectiveness.
• Kinetic studies demonstrated the device's ability to handle sensitive reactions, validating its performance under agitation.

Conclusions:

• A cost-effective and automatable stirring device for UPLC systems has been successfully developed.
• The 3D-printed design facilitates easy replication and modification.
• This innovation enhances the capability of UPLC for experiments requiring precise control over sample agitation.