Mediwax MEDIWAX-24 Manual Vacuum Solid Phase Extraction Manifold

Overview

The Mediwax MEDIWAX-24 Manual Vacuum Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) Manifold is an engineered solution for reproducible, high-throughput sample preparation in analytical laboratories performing liquid chromatography (LC), gas chromatography (GC), mass spectrometry (MS), and clinical toxicology workflows. Based on vacuum-driven column elution principles, the system leverages controlled negative pressure to regulate solvent flow through bonded-phase sorbent cartridges—enabling selective retention, matrix removal, and analyte enrichment prior to instrumental analysis. Unlike automated platforms, this manual manifold provides full operator control over vacuum intensity and per-channel flow kinetics, making it ideal for method development, validation studies, and labs requiring flexibility across diverse sorbent chemistries (e.g., C18, silica, SCX, SAX, Florisil, and mixed-mode phases). Its modular architecture supports both routine batch processing and low-volume targeted extractions, with compatibility extending to EPA, ASTM, ISO 17025, and FDA-regulated environments where documented procedural consistency is required.

Key Features

• 24-port parallel configuration enabling simultaneous processing of up to 24 samples without cross-contamination
• PTFE-sealed stopcocks (24 included) with calibrated fine-thread adjustment for precise, independent flow control per channel (0.1–30 mL/min range)
• Transparent borosilicate glass chamber with integrated vacuum gauge and side-mounted pressure relief valve for real-time visual monitoring and safe pressure management
• Height-adjustable collection rack accommodating tubes from 13 mm to 16 mm diameter—including GC vials, HPLC autosampler vials, conical centrifuge tubes, and volumetric flasks
• Chemically inert wetted path: all solvent-contact surfaces constructed from PTFE, PP, stainless steel, and borosilicate glass—ensuring compatibility with aggressive solvents (e.g., DCM, acetone, methanol, acetonitrile, and 0.1% formic acid)
• Modular accessory ecosystem including 3 mL / 6 mL / 1 mL cartridge adapters, dedicated waste trough (PP), vacuum-compatible gaskets (2 sets), and stainless steel or PP guide needles

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MEDIWAX-24 accommodates standard SPE cartridges (1 mL, 3 mL, 6 mL) and disk-based formats via interchangeable adapter plates. It supports aqueous, biological (plasma, urine, serum), environmental (wastewater, surface water), and food extract matrices. All components meet USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements for contact with diagnostic or pharmaceutical samples. The system is routinely deployed in GLP-compliant laboratories performing EPA Method 508, 525.3, 8081B, and ISO 19751 (pesticide residue analysis), where traceability of vacuum settings, dwell times, and solvent sequences is maintained via lab notebook documentation. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant (as a manual device), its design facilitates audit-ready SOP execution when paired with electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) and validated record-keeping protocols.

Software & Data Management

As a manually operated vacuum manifold, the MEDIWAX-24 does not include embedded firmware or proprietary software. However, its mechanical repeatability and standardized port geometry support integration into digital lab workflows: vacuum pressure logs can be recorded using external digital gauges; flow timing is synchronized with stopwatch-enabled ELN entries; and extraction parameters (e.g., conditioning volume, load time, wash volume, elution volume) are programmatically captured in LIMS or instrument control software (e.g., Thermo Fisher Chromeleon, Agilent OpenLab CDS) during downstream analysis. Optional accessories include Bluetooth-enabled vacuum controllers (sold separately) for time-stamped pressure profiling across multi-step methods.

Applications

• Environmental analysis: extraction of PAHs, PCBs, organochlorine pesticides, and pharmaceutical residues from water and soil extracts
• Clinical toxicology: cleanup and concentration of opioids, benzodiazepines, amphetamines, and cannabinoids from human plasma and urine prior to LC-MS/MS
• Food safety testing: isolation of mycotoxins (aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A), veterinary drug residues (sulfonamides, tetracyclines), and pesticide multiresidues from milk, honey, and fruit homogenates
• Pharmaceutical QC: desalting and buffer exchange of peptide digests prior to MALDI-TOF or nanoLC-MS analysis
• Forensic chemistry: sample fractionation of complex post-mortem tissue extracts to reduce ion suppression in quantitative bioanalysis

FAQ

Is the MEDIWAX-24 compatible with positive-pressure nitrogen manifolds?
No—it is designed exclusively for vacuum-driven operation. Positive-pressure systems require separate hardware (e.g., N₂ manifolds with pressure regulators and check valves) and are not interchangeable.
Can I use 1-mL cartridges with the 24-port manifold?
Yes—via optional 1-mL adapter plate (Cat. No. 82407) or custom-fitted PTFE sleeves that ensure leak-free sealing and uniform flow distribution.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Regular inspection of PTFE stopcock seals and replacement every 6–12 months under continuous use; cleaning of glass chamber and rack with isopropanol followed by air drying; periodic calibration of vacuum gauge against a certified reference standard.
Does the system include vacuum pump compatibility guidance?
Yes—the manifold operates optimally at –20 to –80 kPa (–6 to –24 inHg); recommended pumps include diaphragm-type units with oil-free operation and ≤5 mbar ultimate vacuum (e.g., KNF NMP 830 series or Vacuubrand PC 101).
Are replacement gaskets and stopcocks available as consumables?
Yes—gasket kits (Cat. No. 82404, 2-pack), individual PTFE stopcocks (Cat. No. 82409), and full seal replacement sets are stocked and shipped globally with 48-hour lead time.