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Q: What makes microwave extraction superior to other extraction methods?
A: Extraction of the analytes of interest from the sample matrix is the least evolved (many people still use the Soxhlet method invented in 1879) and most error-prone step in the analytical procedure. Microwave extraction is faster than other methods, and produces more accurate & precise results. The use of laboratory microwave ovens for organic extractions elevates sample preparation to the level of sample analysis.
Q: Why is microwave extraction faster than other methods?
A: Microwave-assisted extraction uses closed vessels to heat the extraction solvent to 2–3 times its atmospheric boiling point. The elevated temperature of the solvent increases the solubility of the analyte of interest and lowers the viscosity of the solvent, allowing it to better penetrate the matrix. This leads to dramatically reduced extraction times.
Q: Why does microwave extraction produce more accurate and precise results?
A: The reflux action that occurs during microwave heating brings the sample in contact with fresh solvent, and stirring promotes interaction between solvent and solute, helping liberate the solute from the matrix.
The homogeneity of the microwave field and the precision of the temperature control are also key elements in microwave extraction. These two elements effect microwave extractions the same way they affect GC or GC/MS analysis. In GC analysis, if the heating of the column is not uniform or consistent, then there will be inconsistent peak shapes which will lead to poor precision. In microwave extraction, if the microwave field is not homogeneous, then the samples will heat at different rates and the extraction temperature will not be uniform, leading to poor precision.
Q: What can microwave extraction be used for?
A: The best applications for microwave extraction are those which currently use soxhlet. Some examples are:
- PAH's, PCB's, Pesticides from soil, sludge, sediment
- Fat from meat
- Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons
- Additives from Polymers
Microwave extraction is also suitable for a variety of other applications in these areas:
- Food
- Environmental
- Pharmaceutical
- Industrial
Q: Which features make the Ethos labstation unique?
A: Unique to the Milestone system is a microwave mode stirrer to guarantee a completely homogeneous field within the microwave cavity, allowing the user to process multiple samples simultaneously, and ensuring even heating of all samples.
Also found only as a part of the Ethos system is a state-of-the-art microprocessor programmed with powerful monitoring and control software to allow for precise control of all extraction parameters, ensuring method reproducibility.
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