Start E


	Milestone microwave extraction systems - Start E

The StartE can simultaneously process multiple samples in a matter of minutes. Microwave assisted extraction uses closed vessels to heat the extraction solvent above its atmospheric boiling point. The elevated temperature increases the solubility of the analyte of interest and lowers the viscosity of the solvent, allowing it to better penetrate the matrix. Higher temperatures help overcome matrix effects and accelerate the desorption and diffusion of the analyte molecules. This all leads to dramatically reduced extraction times. The Ethos 1 system can also be used for microwave extraction

Microwave extractions completed within minutes - a fraction of the time of traditional methods
Higher analyte recovery than traditional methods
Easily adaptable to existing extraction chemistry with use of both polar and non-polar solvents
Reproducible extractions ensured through precise software based control
Reduced costs due to lower solvent usage and disposal
Faster air cooling of samples for higher throughput
Homogeneous microwave distribution throughout the cavity preventing localised hot and cold spots

The new EasyCONTROL software is the most advanced and powerful operating system in the field of microwave sample preparation.Automatic, real-time monitoring and feedback-based control of multiple parameters offers unsurpassed process control. Simply recall a factory stored program or create a new one. Press 'Start', and the system will automatically follow the defined temperature or pressure profile, utilising a sophisticated PID algorithm

Microwave program editing

Simple touch screen editing of methods

Actual temperature profile

Microwave power is automatically adjusted based on continuous feedback allowing the reaction to follow the desired temperature profile


	Advanced Reaction Sensors The START E is equipped with the most advanced reaction sensors, including contact-less temperature and pressure control in all vessels, and direct temperature and pressure control in a single reference vessel


	Direct temperature control The ATC-FO Fibre-Optic Automatic Temperature Control system allows for direct continuous monitoring and control of a reference vessel. The temperature sensor is housed in a thermowell and protected from chemical attack by a multiple layer of inert PTFE and ceramic, ensuring trouble-free operation


	Direct pressure control The APC Automatic Pressure Control system allows for direct monitoring and control of a reference vessel. Pressure monitoring and control is ideal to maintain pressure limits within the vessel's specifications


	Contact-less temperature control in all vessels The START E features a focused, high sensitivity infrared sensor for contact-less temperature monitor and control of all vessels, with individual temperature profiles for each vessel


	Contact-less pressure control in all vessels Unlike contact-less temperature control devices, that focus on one vessel at a time, this sensor monitors vapour concentration in the entire microware chamber, and effectively controls all vessels simultaneously, preventing any leakage of organic solvents


	Flexible applications




		Polymers




		Environmental




		Pharmaceutical




		Oils


	Microwave assisted extraction uses less solvent and is accomplished in a much reduced time:

PAHs and pesticides in soil samples	EPA 3540 (Soxhlet)		START E
	Time required	Solvent consumed	Time required	Solvent consumed
	13,167 hours	450 L	257 hours	16 L
	Comparison study for processing 1.000 samples


	H. M. Kingston et al., 'Microwave Assisted Organic Extraction and Evaporation: an Integrated Approach'. LCGC, Vol. 20, 2002

	Time required Soxhlet	Time required START E
Additives from polymers	3 to 16 hours	20 minutes
Fat from meat	16 hours	25 minutes
Impurities in food dye	20 hours	1 hour


	Milestone application notes