Sample concentration systems are laboratory instruments designed to rapidly reduce sample volume through controlled solvent evaporation, thereby increasing the concentration of analytes such as DNA, RNA, proteins, metabolites, or chemical compounds. These systems are widely used in analytical chemistry, molecular biology, pharmaceutical laboratories, environmental testing, and clinical research where improved sensitivity and efficient sample preparation are required.
A typical sample concentration unit consists of a base and stand assembly, a sample holder, and a gas distribution system. Test tubes or sample vessels are secured using a spring-loaded holder and support tray, allowing multiple samples to be processed simultaneously. Each position is generally numbered for easy identification and workflow traceability.
The concentration process is based on directing a controlled stream of inert gas—commonly nitrogen or clean air—onto the surface of the liquid sample. Gas flows through an adjustable flow meter into a distribution manifold, then through flexible tubing to individual needle valves at each sample position. Needles can be independently raised or lowered according to tube size and solvent volume, ensuring efficient and uniform evaporation. This gentle blowdown technique accelerates solvent removal while helping preserve temperature-sensitive compounds.
Many systems also include a thermostatically controlled stainless-steel water bath, capable of maintaining temperatures from ambient conditions up to approximately 99°C. Controlled heating further increases evaporation efficiency and improves reproducibility across samples.
Main Applications
Used in:
- LC-MS / GC-MS sample preparation
- Drug discovery laboratories
- Environmental residue analysis
- Food and beverage testing
- Molecular biology workflows
- Clinical and forensic laboratories