Biotage Horizon 5000 Automated Disk Extraction System

Importance of the Topic

The extraction of trace-level analytes from aqueous samples is critical across environmental, food, pharmaceutical, and industrial monitoring. Automated solid-phase extraction (SPE) using disk formats streamlines sample preparation, improves reproducibility, and reduces manual labor, addressing the growing demand for high-throughput, reliable analysis of low-concentration contaminants.

Objectives and Overview

This document introduces the Biotage Horizon 5000 Automated Disk Extraction System and highlights its capacity to condition extraction disks, process sample volumes from 40 mL to 2 L, and elute target compounds without user intervention. The overview stresses ease of use, flexibility, and rugged design suitable for routine lab environments or fume hoods.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The system employs three disk positions per module and supports up to four modules controlled by a single PC. Users can load Atlantic SVOC and Pacific Oil & Grease certified disks. Key methodological features include:

• Automated conditioning, sample loading, rinsing, and elution steps
• Use of up to seven solvents stored neatly atop the instrument
• Fast Flow Disk Holders and prefilters to trap particulates and prevent clogging
• Internal pumps operated on demand to minimize noise
• Optional barcode reader for error-free sample ID entry
• Vapor Shield accessory for containment or nitrogen blanketing

Main Results and Discussion

While no quantitative performance data are provided here, the system’s design principles support high recoveries and precision of analytes at low concentrations. The multi-position configuration enables processing of up to 12 samples concurrently, reducing turnaround times. Automated rinsing of original sample bottles with extraction solvents ensures regulatory compliance and minimizes sample loss.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Key advantages of the Horizon 5000 include:

• High sample throughput and batch processing capability
• Reduced manual handling and risk of operator error
• Adaptability to complex matrices without emulsion formation
• Integration with laboratory information management systems via run-condition reports
• Use of original sample containers to simplify workflow

Typical applications encompass environmental water testing, oil & grease analysis, semivolatile organic compound (SVOC) monitoring, and various QA/QC protocols.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Automated disk extraction is poised to evolve through integration with advanced detection methods (e.g., on-line coupling to GC/MS or LC/MS), further software enhancements for AI-driven method optimization, and miniaturized formats for field deployable units. Expansion into bioanalytical sample preparation and increased solvent- and waste-saving approaches will broaden applicability.

Conclusion

The Biotage Horizon 5000 provides a robust, user-friendly platform for automated SPE disk extraction, addressing modern lab demands for throughput, consistency, and trace-level analysis. Its modular design and optional accessories deliver flexibility for diverse analytical workflows, reinforcing its value in environmental, industrial, and regulatory testing.

Reference

Biotage Horizon 5000 Automated Disk Extraction System brochure (2019).