Confirmation of Sample Position

Importance of the Topic

Accurate sample identification and position confirmation are critical in high-throughput chromatographic laboratories to ensure data integrity, reduce human error, and improve workflow efficiency. Integration of barcode reading into automated sampler systems addresses common challenges in sample tracking and quality control, particularly when processing large sample batches.

Study Objectives and Overview

This overview demonstrates how the Agilent 1290 Infinity III Multisampler equipped with the InfinityLab Sample ID Reader confirms sample positions against expected entries in Agilent OpenLab CDS. Using paraben preservatives as model analytes, the study illustrates end-to-end software-aided barcode workflows that validate vial identity and placement before injection.

Methodology

Samples of methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben were prepared at 100 mg/L in acetonitrile and sealed in vials featuring bottom-mounted QR codes. The sequence table in OpenLab CDS was populated by scanning vial barcodes for sample name and expected identifier; vial positions were entered manually. Upon closing the sample drawer, the InfinityLab Reader scanned all barcodes and stored them for comparison.

Chromatographic conditions:
• Column: ZORBAX Eclipse Plus C18, RRHD, 2.1×100 mm, 1.8 µm
• Mobile phases: A – Water; B – Acetonitrile
• Gradient: 15%–95% B over 5 min, 2 min post time
• Flow rate: 0.5 mL/min; injection volume: 1 µL; column temp: 45 °C
• Detection: 254/4 nm, reference 360/16 nm, data rate 20 Hz

Instrumentation Used

• Agilent 1290 Infinity III Multisampler (G7167B) with InfinityLab Sample ID Reader (G4756A)
• Agilent 1290 Infinity III High-Speed Pump (G7120A)
• Agilent 1290 Infinity III Diode Array Detector (G7117B) with Max-Light Flow Cell
• Agilent OpenLab CDS, version 2.8 or later
• Accessories: barcoded vials, barcode tray, handheld scanner, crimp caps

Main Results and Discussion

The system correctly matched scanned barcodes with expected entries, flagging any mismatches in red. Two error-handling modes were demonstrated:

1. Inject anyway: acquisition proceeds, and both expected and observed codes are recorded.
2. Abort current injection: the mismatched sample is skipped.

Chromatograms confirmed correct analyte peaks when vials were properly placed, while misplaced vials yielded unexpected retention times and red-coded alerts in the sequence summary report.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Automated barcode validation reduces manual entry errors and false results.
• Seamless integration with OpenLab CDS enhances throughput in QA/QC and research labs.
• Flexible error-handling options allow users to maintain productivity while monitoring sample integrity.

Future Trends and Possibilities

• Deeper integration with laboratory information management systems to enable fully traceable workflows.
• Cloud-based data storage and AI-driven analytics for predictive quality control.
• Expansion of barcode and sample-linking technologies to multi-well plates and other sample formats.
• Adaptation of similar confirmation approaches for mass spectrometry and other detection modes.

Conclusion

The combination of the Agilent 1290 Infinity III Multisampler and InfinityLab Sample ID Reader provides a robust solution for sample position confirmation, enhancing data reliability and operational efficiency. By automating barcode scanning and validation within OpenLab CDS, laboratories can minimize errors and streamline high-throughput workflows.

References

1. Aoyama A.; Doi T.; Tagami T.; Kajimura K. Simultaneous Determination of 11 Preservatives in Cosmetics by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. J. Chromatogr. Sci. 2014, 52(9), 1010–1015.
2. Agilent Technologies. Sample Position Identification and Measurement Confirmation Using the Agilent 1290 Infinity III Multisampler with InfinityLab Sample ID Reader – Part 2 of 2. Technical Overview 5994-7569EN, 2024.
3. Agilent Technologies. Agilent Advanced Sample Linking – A Complete Workflow from Any LIMS to the Vial and Analytical Results. White Paper 5994-7570EN, 2024.