INNOTEG SAMPLING CASE Portable Automated Gas Sampler for VOC Analysis

Overview

The INNOTEG SAMPLING CASE is a field-portable, microprocessor-controlled automated gas sampler engineered for quantitative collection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from ambient air, headspace, breath, and pressurized sample matrices. It operates on the principle of volumetrically controlled, time-synchronized aspiration—using precision electronic mass flow controllers (MFCs) to deliver stable, repeatable flow rates across diverse sampling configurations. Unlike passive diffusion samplers or manually timed pump systems, the SAMPLING CASE integrates real-time flow monitoring, programmable sampling volume termination, and battery-powered autonomy—enabling compliance with standardized VOC sampling protocols requiring trace-level reproducibility and documented chain-of-custody. Its modular design supports seamless coupling with needle trap devices (NTDs), thermal desorption tubes (e.g., Tenax®, Carbopack™), and custom sorbent cartridges—making it suitable for both laboratory-prepared and on-site deployment scenarios.

Key Features

• Programmable sampling volume (10–10,000 mL) with automatic flow-integrated termination
• Electronic MFC-based flow regulation with two calibrated ranges: 1–50 mL/min and 5–250 mL/min, selected per model variant to match sorbent tube capacity and analyte volatility
• Multi-mode sampling architecture: direct ambient air (XS, S, B), overpressure (S, L, XL), static/dynamic headspace (L, XL), assisted gas dynamic headspace (XL), and clinical breath sampling (B)
• Integrated high-efficiency vacuum pump with pressure-compensated operation up to 150 mbar backpressure
• Rechargeable 24 V / 10 Ah lithium-ion battery enabling >8 hours continuous operation at 50 mL/min (typical), with AC charging support (110–230 V, 50/60 Hz)
• Backlit LCD interface with intuitive menu navigation, real-time flow rate display, elapsed time, remaining battery status, and error logging
• Rugged, ergonomic enclosure optimized for transport: compact footprint (as small as 340 × 295 × 150 mm), IP54-rated housing, and shock-absorbing casing for field durability

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SAMPLING CASE is validated for use with industry-standard sorbent media—including but not limited to Tenax TA, Carbopack X, Graphitized Carbon Black (GCB), and proprietary needle trap assemblies. Its flow stability (<±2% RSD over 1 hr) and low dead-volume manifold meet requirements for ISO 16000-6 (indoor air), ASTM D6196 (ambient air), and EPA Method TO-17 (thermal desorption analysis). The device supports GLP-compliant data integrity through timestamped sampling logs stored internally; optional USB export enables integration into LIMS environments. While not intrinsically rated for hazardous area use (ATEX/IECEx), it is routinely deployed in non-classified environmental, agricultural, food safety, and clinical research settings where VOC profiling demands trace-level fidelity and operational flexibility.

Software & Data Management

The SAMPLING CASE operates autonomously without external PC dependency. All sampling parameters—including target volume, flow setpoint, delay time, and pump start/stop logic—are configured directly via the front-panel interface. Internal memory retains ≥100 sampling records with timestamps, actual delivered volume, average flow rate, battery voltage, and system fault codes. Data export is supported via USB-C connection using vendor-provided CSV-compatible utility software, enabling batch import into chromatographic data systems (CDS) or statistical analysis platforms. Firmware updates are performed offline via USB, ensuring audit-trail continuity in regulated laboratories operating under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or ISO/IEC 17025 frameworks.

Applications

• Environmental monitoring: Ambient air VOC screening near industrial zones, landfills, and urban traffic corridors
• Indoor air quality (IAQ) assessment: Formaldehyde, benzene, and terpene quantification in offices, schools, and residential buildings per ISO 16000 series
• Food and flavor science: Headspace VOC profiling of fruits, dairy, fermented products, and packaging off-gassing
• Plant volatilomics: In-field collection of herbivore-induced or stress-responsive biogenic VOCs (e.g., isoprene, monoterpenes)
• Clinical breath research: Non-invasive collection of exhaled breath condensate (EBC) and volatile biomarkers (e.g., acetone, isoprene, alkanes) using Model B configuration
• Method development labs: Platform for validating new sorbent materials, thermal desorption parameters, and GC-MS calibration strategies

FAQ

What sorbent tubes or traps are compatible with the SAMPLING CASE?
The sampler accepts standard 1/4″ OD stainless steel or glass thermal desorption tubes (e.g., 3.5″ or 6″ length) and commercially available needle trap devices (NTDs) with 22-gauge Luer-lock or threaded interfaces.
Is the flow rate calibrated traceably to NIST standards?
Yes—each MFC is factory-calibrated against primary flow standards accredited to ISO/IEC 17025; calibration certificates are supplied with every unit.
Can the SAMPLING CASE operate while charging?
Yes—the device supports hot-swap operation: AC power input maintains battery charge and powers the system simultaneously without interrupting active sampling.
Does it support remote triggering or network connectivity?
No—this is a standalone, field-hardened instrument without Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth; all control and data retrieval occur locally via LCD or USB.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Annual verification of MFC accuracy and pump performance is recommended; filter replacement (inlet particulate filter and pump exhaust filter) is advised after every 500 sampling hours or when pressure drop exceeds 20 mbar.