BUCHI E-914 Accelerated Solvent Extractor

Overview

The BUCHI E-914 Accelerated Solvent Extractor is an automated, high-pressure, high-temperature solid-liquid extraction system engineered for reproducible and efficient isolation of analytes from solid or semi-solid matrices. Based on the principle of accelerated solvent extraction (ASE®), the instrument applies elevated temperature and pressure to enhance solubility and mass transfer kinetics—enabling rapid desorption of target compounds while minimizing thermal degradation. Unlike conventional Soxhlet or ultrasonic extraction methods, the E-914 delivers consistent recoveries with reduced solvent consumption and significantly shorter cycle times. Designed for routine QC/QA laboratories and regulated environments, it complies with method requirements outlined in EPA Methods 3545A and 3546, ASTM D7698, and ISO 14507 for environmental, food, pharmaceutical, and agricultural sample preparation.

Key Features

• Four-position extraction carousel enabling sequential or parallel processing of up to four samples per run—compatible with standardized ASE cells (40, 60, 80, and 120 mL) for flexible throughput scaling.
• Precise thermal control across a validated operating range of 50–200 °C, with ramp rates and hold times programmable to optimize analyte stability and extraction efficiency.
• Robust hydraulic architecture delivering stable pressure up to 150 bar using inert nitrogen (5–10 bar supply required), ensuring complete cell sealing and solvent penetration into dense matrices.
• Integrated solvent delivery system featuring a 4-port mixing module, allowing binary or ternary solvent gradients without manual intervention—critical for method development and multi-analyte workflows.
• Automated cell sealing, flush-and-fill cycles, and waste diversion into dedicated collection vessels reduce operator exposure and eliminate cross-contamination risks between runs.
• Modular design supports seamless integration with downstream BUCHI platforms—including Syncore Plus parallel evaporators and Multivapor P-6 systems—enabling fully traceable, unattended sample-to-concentrate workflows.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The E-914 accommodates a broad spectrum of solid and semi-solid samples, including soils, sediments, sludges, plant tissues, animal feed, polymers, and pharmaceutical tablets. Its configurable cell volumes support both high-sensitivity trace analysis (using 40 mL cells) and high-mass industrial QA (120 mL cells). All operational parameters—including temperature, pressure, static time, flush volume, and purge duration—are digitally logged with timestamped audit trails, satisfying GLP and GMP documentation requirements. The system meets essential electrical safety standards (IEC 61010-1) and is compatible with 21 CFR Part 11-compliant software extensions when paired with BUCHI’s LabX platform.

Software & Data Management

Control and monitoring are performed via BUCHI’s intuitive touchscreen interface or optionally through LabX laboratory software. LabX provides centralized method management, electronic signature support, user access levels, and full data integrity features—including immutable raw data storage, change history tracking, and export to CSV, PDF, or LIMS-compatible formats. All extraction logs include cell ID, solvent composition, pressure/temperature profiles, and real-time status flags—facilitating internal validation, external audits, and regulatory submissions.

Applications

• Environmental analysis: PAHs, PCBs, organochlorine pesticides, and dioxins from soil and sediment per EPA 3545A.
• Food safety testing: Mycotoxins, fat-soluble vitamins, and pesticide residues in cereals, nuts, and dairy powders.
• Pharmaceutical R&D: Active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) recovery from excipient blends and dissolution matrix studies.
• Materials science: Additive leaching from plastics, flame retardants from textiles, and residual monomers from polymer composites.
• Agricultural research: Nutrient profiling, phytochemical extraction, and contaminant screening in crops and fertilizers.

FAQ

What is the maximum number of samples processed simultaneously on the E-914?

The E-914 features a 4-position carousel—supporting up to four extraction cells per run. Sequential automation enables unattended processing of larger batches.
Can the E-914 be used with chlorinated solvents such as dichloromethane?

Yes—provided appropriate chemical compatibility checks are performed on seals and wetted parts; all standard E-914 fluidic components are rated for common organic solvents including DCM, acetone, hexane, and ethanol.
Is method transfer possible from older ASE instruments?

Absolutely—the E-914 supports identical cell geometries and comparable pressure/temperature protocols, enabling direct translation of validated EPA, ASTM, or in-house methods.
Does the system require external cooling or ventilation?

No dedicated chiller is needed; however, adequate laboratory ventilation and ambient temperature control (15–30 °C) are recommended for optimal pump and electronics performance.
How is maintenance tracked and documented?

LabX records service events, calibration dates, and consumable usage (e.g., seal replacements); maintenance schedules can be configured with automated reminders and compliance reports.