Mediwax 12-Port Manual Vacuum Solid Phase Extraction Manifold

Overview

The Mediwax 12-Port Manual Vacuum Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) Manifold is an engineered platform for reproducible, gravity- and vacuum-assisted sample preparation in analytical laboratories. Designed around the fundamental principles of solid-phase extraction—adsorption, selective retention, matrix removal, and analyte elution—the system enables precise control over solvent flow dynamics across 12 parallel SPE columns. Unlike automated or positive-pressure systems, this manifold leverages regulated vacuum suction through a borosilicate glass chamber to drive consistent, low-shear fluid passage through sorbent-packed cartridges. Its architecture supports standardized SPE protocols per ASTM D7066, ISO 16775, and EPA Method 508.3, making it suitable for environmental, pharmaceutical, food safety, and clinical toxicology workflows where method traceability and manual intervention are required.

Key Features

• Borosilicate glass chamber with transparent walls for real-time visual monitoring of solvent flow, column breakthrough, and phase separation
• Twelve independently controllable stopcock valves (PTFE-tipped brass) enabling sequential or simultaneous processing with adjustable flow rates per port
• Modular, height-adjustable collection rack accommodating diverse receiver formats: 13 mm and 16 mm test tubes, autosampler vials (e.g., 2 mL amber glass), volumetric flasks, conical centrifuge tubes, and custom containers
• Dual-layer sealing system with dual gaskets (silicone + PTFE) ensuring leak-free vacuum integrity up to –25 inHg (–85 kPa)
• Integrated vacuum gauge with side-mounted pressure relief valve for rapid system depressurization and safe cartridge handling
• Corrosion-resistant polypropylene waste tray included (two units supplied) with graduated markings for volume estimation and spill containment
• Compatible with standard 1 mL, 3 mL, and 6 mL SPE cartridges—including bonded silica, C18, SCX, SAX, and mixed-mode sorbents—via optional adapter plates

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The manifold accommodates aqueous, organic, and mixed-solvent samples within the recommended loading range of 0.5–6 mL per port. All wetted components—including chamber, cover gasket, stopcocks, and PTFE transfer tubing—are chemically inert toward common SPE solvents (methanol, acetonitrile, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, and aqueous buffers). The system meets GLP documentation requirements when used with validated SOPs; its manual operation allows full operator control during critical steps (e.g., conditioning, washing, drying), supporting audit-ready process logs. While not FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant by itself (as it lacks electronic data capture), it integrates seamlessly into compliant workflows when paired with LIMS-tracked sample labeling and handwritten protocol records adhering to ISO/IEC 17025.

Software & Data Management

This is a hardware-only, non-electronic manifold with no embedded firmware or software interface. Data management relies on external laboratory practices: users record flow timing, vacuum pressure, solvent volumes, and cartridge lot numbers in paper-based or electronic lab notebooks (ELN). Optional integration with digital SOP platforms (e.g., LabVantage, Benchling) is supported via standardized operating procedure templates aligned with USP Analytical Instrument Qualification. Calibration verification is performed using certified vacuum gauges and timed gravimetric flow checks per manufacturer-recommended intervals (quarterly or after 200 cycles).

Applications

• Pre-concentration and cleanup of pesticide residues in drinking water per EPA 525.3
• Isolation of opioid metabolites from urine prior to LC-MS/MS analysis in forensic toxicology
• Removal of phospholipids and proteins from plasma samples in bioanalytical method development
• Matrix removal from soil leachates prior to GC-ECD detection of PCB congeners
• High-throughput sample prep for multi-residue analysis in fruit and vegetable extracts (EN 15662)
• Method development for ion-exchange SPE in anion/cation profiling of electrolyte solutions

FAQ

Is the glass chamber resistant to hydrofluoric acid or hot concentrated sulfuric acid?
No. The borosilicate glass chamber is compatible with standard SPE solvents but not with HF, molten alkalis, or >60% w/w H₂SO₄ at elevated temperatures.
Can I use this manifold under positive pressure instead of vacuum?
No. It is mechanically designed exclusively for vacuum-driven flow; positive pressure may compromise seal integrity and cause leakage or cartridge rupture.
What is the maximum vacuum level the system can safely sustain?
The chamber is rated for continuous operation at –25 inHg (–85 kPa); exceeding this may deform gaskets or impair stopcock actuation.
Are replacement gaskets available as standalone parts?
Yes—part number 81204 includes two silicone/PTFE composite gaskets per pack, qualified for ≥500 cycles under standard use conditions.
Does the manifold include vacuum pump compatibility specifications?
It features a standard 8 mm OD barbed inlet port compatible with diaphragm, rotary vane, or scroll vacuum pumps delivering ≥20 L/min free-air displacement at ≤100 mbar ultimate vacuum.