Sample Preparation for Accurate Lab Analysis

What is Sample Preparation?

When it comes to lab analysis, sample preparation is key.

Converting your raw materials or samples into a form suitable for analysis may sound simple, but there is a lot of room for error along the way. What you get out of your experiment depends on the quality of what you put in. If sample preparation is inadequate, it can result in inaccurate results or loss of critical data. So, don’t let sample preparation be the bottleneck of your lab.

At Cole-Parmer, we understand how important sample preparation is for getting reliable results. Our range of instruments and equipment is designed to help you get the best samples for your analysis.

If you need any help figuring out which sample preparation techniques are right for you, don’t hesitate to Contact us. We’re here to help you succeed!

Increase Sensitivity

Sample preparation can enhance the sensitivity of the analysis, allowing the detection of trace levels of analytes that may not have been detected without proper sample preparation.

Homogenization and cell lysis are all about making sure your molecule of interest is released and evenly mixed. It's the process of breaking down your sample to create a uniform mixture. This helps reduce sample heterogeneity, ensuring you get consistent results from your analysis.

Milling and grinding are techniques used to reduce the particle size of your sample. This makes it easier to analyze and can improve the accuracy of your results. By breaking down larger particles into smaller ones, milling and grinding helps you get a more uniform sample for analysis.

Sometimes, you need to combine two or more samples to create a homogeneous mixture. Mixing and blending techniques are perfect for this. They help you create a consistent mixture by thoroughly combining different samples, ensuring you get reliable results from your analysis.

Watch out for Contamination:

Keep your samples safe from outside variables like air, equipment, and clumsy handling. Use clean equipment and work in a controlled environment to avoid contamination messing up your samples.

Mix it Right:

How you mix or blend your samples matters. Poor mixing can result in inaccurate results. Make sure you're using the right method and equipment to get a perfect blend.

Check your Gear:

Quality of equipment matters too. Keep your mixers, blenders, and stirrers in top shape to ensure consistent and accurate results.

Know your Samples:

Different samples need different treatments. Whether it's solid, liquid, or something in between, understand your sample properties and pick the right mixing or blending technique.

Time and Temperature:

Don't overlook these factors. Mixing time and temperature can affect sample stability and consistency, so keep an eye on the clock and the thermometer.

Operator Skills:

Your skills are important too. Proper training, technique, and attention to detail can make a big difference in the quality of your sample preparation.

Sample Size:

Don't skimp on sample size. Too little or too much sample can mess with your mixing or blending. Find the sweet spot for optimal results.

Sample Matrix:

Different sample matrices can impact your sample prep too. Adjust your mixing or blending techniques based on the composition and complexity of your sample matrix.

Control your Variables:

Consistently controlling your experimental variables like mixing speed, duration, and temperature can ensure reproducibility and accuracy in your sample prep.