Biotage VacMaster-96

Importance of the Topic

High-throughput bioanalytical sample preparation is essential for modern laboratories, requiring robust and flexible systems that ensure reproducibility, safety, and compatibility with automation platforms. The Biotage VacMaster-96 offers a unified vacuum-based solution for 96-well plate processing, streamlining solid-phase extraction, protein precipitation, and supported liquid extraction.

Objectives and Overview

This technical document aims to present the design features, operational capabilities, and accessory options of the VacMaster-96 station. It provides a comprehensive guide to its application scope, vacuum control strategies, and waste management solutions, facilitating informed method development and laboratory integration.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

The VacMaster-96 manifold is manufactured from inert, solvent-resistant materials and accommodates various 96-well formats, including ISOLUTE and EVOLUTE plates, tabless columns, and deep or shallow wells. Key components include:

• Vacuum Control Units (VCU-1 and VCU-2) offering manual vacuum regulation with or without integrated vacuum generators.
• VacMaster Trap Kit in 1 L or 10 L configurations to capture hazardous or solvent-laden effluent.
• Plate spacers and inserts enabling cross-talk prevention and compatibility with diverse plate geometries.

Main Results and Discussion

System evaluation highlights:

• Multiple plate compatibility enhances method flexibility across SPE and filtration protocols.
• Compact design minimizes bench footprint while supporting robotic handling.
• Inert construction and chute-shaped manifold base ensure chemical resistance and efficient waste drainage, eliminating disposable trays.
• Modular vacuum control units separate from the manifold facilitate maintenance and prevent solvent exposure to control interfaces.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Laboratories benefit from:

• Streamlined workflows for bioanalysis, environmental testing, drug screening, and quality control.
• Ease of integration with manual and automated liquid handlers.
• Improved safety and disposal through external traps and inert waste collection.

Future Trends and Possibilities

Emerging directions include:

• Further automation integration with LIMS and robotics for end-to-end processing.
• Expansion into microscale and ultrahigh-throughput formats.
• Advanced trap and filter technologies for real-time monitoring of effluent composition.

Conclusion

The Biotage VacMaster-96 Sample Processing Station delivers a versatile, scalable platform for 96-well vacuum-based sample preparation, combining broad format compatibility, robust construction, and configurable vacuum control to meet diverse analytical demands.