Seamless Data Flow for HPLC Sample Preparation

Quantitative HPLC analysis is an important technique used in most quality control or analytical laboratories. Critical decisions about product batches are made based on the results of these analyses, so it is vital that the final analytical results are correct and reliable. To ensure accurate results are obtained at the end of the process, it is equally important to ensure that the steps at the beginning are carefully executed and recorded correctly. Calibration standards must be accurately prepared, and the weight and concentration data must be clearly documented and managed throughout the process.

Any errors in weighing data or calculations in the initial stages will be propagated throughout the process, leading to errors in the final result.

Sample preparation can occupy up to 60% of time expenditure in an analytical laboratory. Moreover, up to 25% of working time may be spent on data management (writing down results, archiving, etc.)

As laboratories become more and more digitized, the need for standardized software solutions becomes apparent. Such solutions can enable automatic data management, guided workflows and a reduction of errors, all in accordance with current data integrity regulations.

Agilent Technologies and Mettler-Toledo International, Inc have jointly developed an integrated workflow solution that addresses the most pressing root causes for laboratory failure investigations, while supporting the current processes in the laboratory.

This integrated solution allows the automatic and seamless transfer of weighing data and its metadata from the LabX Balance software to the Agilent OpenLab CDS via Sample Scheduler for OpenLab and enables also other productivity aspects. It significantly reduces potential errors by avoiding the need for manual calculations or data transcription throughout the entire analytical workflow.

A calibration standard preparation process, using the integrated solution (LabX - OpenLab Plugin) is described below:

1. Log in to the balance terminal and start the LabX weighing task
2. Manually or automatically dispense the target amount into an empty volumetric flask / vial
3. Manually fill a volumetric flask with solvent up to the line or let the dosing module dispense the solvent
4. If required, the samples must be filtered and transferred into HPLC vials
5. LabX calculates the actual concentration of the stock solution and transfers the concentration value, substance name and other metadata to the Sample Scheduler
6. Set up an analysis sequence based on the received data within Sample Scheduler and select a free LC instrument
7. The HPLC injects the samples and the calibration standards and runs the analysis
8. Review the results within OpenLab CDS. The calibration curve is created automatically, and the concentration of the sample can be automatically determined

Read more on the topic in our application note "Seamless Data Flow for HPLC - From Weighing to Analytical Result"