Optimising sample preparation workflows in environmental labs

An e-book by Milestone available from Analytix as a download, provides a practical guide to optimising sample preparation workflows for heavy metals and organic pollutants in environmental laboratories.

While often overlooked, sample preparation is a cornerstone of laboratory operations, directly impacting productivity, data quality, regulatory compliance, safety and overall operational costs. However, it is also one of the most labour-intensive and challenging aspects of environmental testing, requiring precise workflows to handle a wide range of sample types, regulatory limitations and analytical requirements.

The e-book describes a total workflow approach to sample preparation and provides a strategic solution to the above challenges. By refining each stage of sample preparation -from reagent handling to final analysis - laboratories can streamline operations and reduce manual efforts while ensuring compliance, safety and reliability.

The first section of the e-book focuses on the heavy metal’s workflow, beginning with the most straightforward approach to mercury analysis before guiding readers through each step of sample preparation for other heavy metals - covering everything from high purity acid supply, microwave digestion options, improving filtration efficiency, and vessel handling and cleaning.

The second section addresses the workflow for organic pollutant analysis, from automating solvent handling and reagent handling, advancing organic pollutants extraction with microwave technology, and vessel cleaning. Both sections describe how laboratories can improve workflow efficiency, safety, and consistency.

The e-book includes multiple links to industry and technology reports, videos and webinars. The forward-thinking total workflow approach not only solves today’s challenges but also equips laboratories to adapt to future demands.