Automated Sample Handling and Analysis With NOVA: High-throughput electrochemistry

Importance of the topic

The integration of automated liquid handling with electrochemical measurement systems enables significant improvements in sample throughput, reproducibility and operational efficiency.

Aims and overview of the study

This application note describes the combination of the Metrohm 858 Professional Sample Processor with an Autolab potentiostat/galvanostat under control of NOVA software. The goal is to achieve fully automated, high-throughput electrochemical analysis with minimal user intervention.

Methodology and instrumentation

• Metrohm 858 Professional Sample Processor with a 22-position, 120 mL rack (6.2041.470)
• Three Metrohm 800 Dosino dosing units connected via MSB bus
• Metrohm 801 Magnetic Stirrer mounted under the cell and daisy-chained to MSB
• Metrohm 6.2148.010 Remote Box for level control and device integration
• Metrohm 843 Membrane Pump Station for sample waste and cleaning fluid management
• Metrohm 849 Level Control for monitoring canister fill levels
• Autolab potentiostat/galvanostat controlled through NOVA software

The system uses MSB connections to daisy-chain devices. Dosino units respectively handle sample aspiration, electrolyte addition, and standard additions. Membrane pumps manage waste and cell cleaning. A dedicated wash position on the sample rack minimizes carryover. NOVA software provides both manual and embedded control commands for each instrument.

Key results and discussion

The automated setup successfully performed sequential electrochemical measurements without manual intervention. Monitoring of pump canisters prevented overflows and ensured uninterrupted operation. Wash cycles and dedicated rack positions effectively reduced cross-contamination. The integration into NOVA allowed seamless coordination between liquid handling and electrochemical measurements.

Benefits and practical applications

• High sample throughput and consistent handling
• Reduced operator workload and risk of human error
• Reproducible results suited for QA/QC laboratories
• Adaptability to various electrochemical methods and sample types

Future trends and opportunities

Advancements may include integration of smart sensors for real-time feedback, AI-driven experiment planning, remote monitoring via cloud platforms, and miniaturized fluidics for multiplexed analyses. Such developments will further enhance automation and data integrity in electrochemical research and industrial applications.

Conclusion

This application note demonstrates a robust, fully automated electrochemical analysis platform by combining the Metrohm 858 Sample Processor with Autolab instrumentation under NOVA control. The system delivers reliable, high-throughput measurements with minimal user intervention.

Reference

AN-AUT-003, Application Note, Metrohm, April 2019