Supelco Visiprep DL Solid Phase Extraction System

Overview

The Supelco Visiprep DL Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) System is an engineered benchtop vacuum manifold platform designed for reproducible, high-throughput sample preparation in analytical laboratories. It operates on the fundamental principle of selective adsorption and elution—leveraging physicochemical interactions (e.g., hydrophobic, polar, ionic, or π–π interactions) between analytes and solid-phase sorbents packed in disposable SPE cartridges. Unlike traditional liquid–liquid extraction (LLE), this system significantly reduces solvent consumption (typically by >70%), minimizes operator exposure to hazardous organics, and improves analyte recovery and matrix cleanup efficiency. The Visiprep DL architecture supports standardized, method-driven workflows aligned with widely adopted regulatory protocols—including EPA Methods 500, 525, and 8270, as well as ISO 17993 and ASTM D7678—for trace-level analysis of organic contaminants in complex matrices.

Key Features

• Patented anti-cross-contamination vacuum manifold design with independent, sealed sample ports—eliminates carryover between channels during sequential processing
• Chemically inert construction using high-purity polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and PTFE-coated stainless steel components, ensuring compatibility with aggressive solvents (e.g., dichloromethane, acetonitrile, methanol)
• Modular configuration supporting 12-, 24-, or 48-position formats; compatible with standard 1 mL, 3 mL, 6 mL, and 12 mL SPE cartridges from Supelco and third-party manufacturers
• Integrated pressure regulation and visual flow control via calibrated vacuum gauge and adjustable needle valves—enables precise optimization of flow rates (0.5–5 mL/min typical for optimal retention/elution kinetics)
• Optional accessories include large-volume samplers (up to 2 L), nitrogen blow-down modules for solvent evaporation, inert gas manifolds (N₂ or Argon), and vacuum buffer flasks with integrated liquid level sensors

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Visiprep DL system accommodates a broad spectrum of sample types after appropriate homogenization or dissolution: aqueous environmental samples (drinking water, wastewater, groundwater), biological fluids (serum, plasma, urine, cerebrospinal fluid), food extracts (juices, dairy, alcoholic beverages), plant tissues (after QuEChERS or accelerated solvent extraction), and solid matrices (soils, sediments, animal tissues, pharmaceutical tablets) following liquid-phase conversion. All Supelco-certified SPE sorbents—including C18 (40 µm, 60 Å, PE-coated), Florisil® (magnesium silicate, 100/120 mesh, PE-coated), polymeric reversed-phase resins (80–160 µm spherical particles), and graphitized carbon black (unbonded, macroporous)—are pre-validated for batch-to-batch consistency, recovery linearity (R² ≥ 0.995 over 0.1–100 ng/mL), and inter-lot precision (RSD < 5% at n = 6). The system meets GLP/GMP documentation requirements when paired with compliant laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and supports audit trails per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when used with validated electronic record software.

Software & Data Management

While the Visiprep DL is a hardware-only platform (no embedded microprocessor or onboard software), it integrates seamlessly into digital lab ecosystems. Method parameters—including vacuum setpoint, dwell time per step (conditioning, loading, washing, elution), and cartridge type—are documented in SOPs compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 and referenced in electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) such as LabArchives or Benchling. Supelco provides downloadable method templates and QC checklists in PDF and Excel formats, including spike-recovery worksheets, blank assessment logs, and column performance verification protocols. For automated data capture, the system interfaces with balance and autosampler peripherals via RS-232 or USB-serial adapters, enabling timestamped metadata linkage to chromatographic data systems (CDS) like Thermo Chromeleon or Waters Empower.

Applications

• Environmental analysis: PAHs, PCBs, phthalates, and organochlorine pesticides in water and soil extracts
• Clinical toxicology: quantification of opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants in serum and urine per CLIA and CAP guidelines
• Food safety: multi-residue screening of neonicotinoids, triazoles, and glyphosate metabolites in fruits, vegetables, and infant formula
• Pharmaceutical QC: removal of excipients and degradation products prior to HPLC-UV or LC-MS/MS analysis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)
• Forensic chemistry: isolation of cannabinoids and synthetic cathinones from blood and hair digests

FAQ

Is the Visiprep DL compatible with non-Supelco SPE cartridges?

Yes—the manifold accepts any standard 1/4″–28 threaded or push-fit SPE cartridge conforming to ANSI/SLAS dimensional specifications.

What vacuum source is recommended for optimal performance?

A diaphragm vacuum pump capable of sustaining ≤150 mbar absolute pressure with oil-free operation is advised to prevent contamination and ensure long-term seal integrity.

Can the system be validated for regulated environments?

Yes—full IQ/OQ/PQ documentation packages, including calibration certificates for vacuum gauges and flow verification reports, are available upon request from authorized Supelco distributors.

How often should the PTFE gaskets and O-rings be replaced?

Under normal use (≤500 cycles/year), replacement is recommended annually or after visible compression set, discoloration, or leakage during vacuum hold testing.

Does Supelco offer application support for method development?

Yes—technical specialists provide free consultation on sorbent selection, solvent optimization, and recovery validation per analyte class, supported by peer-reviewed application notes and webinar archives.