PCB and Dioxin Analysis Automated Sample Clean-up

Importance of the topic

Automated sample cleanup and preparation are essential for accurate and reliable PCB and dioxin analysis. These persistent organic pollutants pose significant health and environmental risks, and their determination in food, environmental and biological samples requires strict adherence to regulatory limits and highly reproducible workflows.

Objectives and Study Overview

This summary presents the development and capabilities of the DEXTech product family for PCB and dioxin sample cleanup, highlighting the evolution from single-sample systems to fully automated, unattended high-throughput platforms. Key milestones include the first automated cleanup in 2013 and the introduction of sequential processing in 2018.

Methodology and Instrumentation

DEXTech systems employ a three-column cleanup scheme based on high-quality glass columns packed with acidic silica gel, aluminium oxide and carbon phases. Samples undergo quantitative vial rinsing, automated loading, and sequential elution of PCB and dioxin fractions. Heated modules (DEXTech Heat) maintain samples and flow paths above melting points of fatty matrices. The DEXTech 16 platform extends this approach to process up to sixteen samples unattended, with automatic column exchange, pressure-tight seals and integrated solvent management.

Used Instrumentation

• DEXTech Pure: flexible single-sample cleanup with one-hand click-in columns
• DEXTech Heat: heated sample introduction and flow path to prevent clogging of fatty samples
• DEXTech 16: sequential processing of 16 samples around the clock with autosampler and column carousel
• D-EVA: parallel vacuum concentrator for fast, reproducible drying of PCB and dioxin fractions

Key Results and Discussion

Validation studies demonstrate clear chromatographic separation, high recoveries of 13C-labelled standards, and no observable cross-contamination. Processing times are reduced, and default EPA-compliant and customizable methods ensure consistency across laboratories. The heated workflows prevent sample hardening and facilitate quantitative transfer.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Automated DEXTech workflows deliver:

• Reliable, reproducible cleanup with minimized manual errors
• Increased throughput and faster sample turnaround
• Quantitative transfer and consistent fraction volumes
• Compliance with international EPA and EU regulations
• Unattended operation for overnight or continuous processing

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging trends include integration of real-time monitoring sensors, AI-driven method optimization, direct coupling to GC-MS instruments and expansion to novel analyte classes. Miniaturized flow paths and further reduction of solvent consumption will advance sustainable high-throughput analytics.

Conclusion

The DEXTech product family streamlines PCB and dioxin analysis through robust automation, high reproducibility and flexible throughput options. Its modular design supports diverse sample types and regulatory compliance, positioning laboratories for efficient, future-ready contaminant monitoring.