Markes International
A new sample preparation and concentration platform
The Centri (photo) is a fully automated multi-mode sampling and concentration platform for GC–MS (gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy) analysis. The new instrument uses market-leading robotics to reliably automate sampling and pre-concentration of volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (VOCs and SVOCs) through all of the sample introduction modes. Analyte flows from all modes can then be concentrated on a sorbent-packed cryogen-free focusing trap, using the company’s range of thermal desorption (TD) instruments. As well as enabling parts-per-trillion- (ppt) level sensitivity and allowing selective purging of interferents, such as water and solvents, the trap and valve design used in Centri allows samples to be split and re-collected onto a clean sorbent tube. — Markes International Ltd., Llantrisant, U.K.