Automated accelerated solvent extraction apparatus and method

Abstract

An apparatus for automated extraction of an analyte from a sample positioned in a sample containment cell having a fluid passageway structure for communication of an extraction fluid to and from the cavity of the cell. The apparatus includes a loading tray, an oven assembly mounted proximate the loading tray, a fluid communication assembly mounted proximate the tray, a cell manipulation assembly and a controller. The cell manipulation assembly brings an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit of the fluid communication assembly into sealed relationship with the sample containment cell and uses the conduits to pick up and move the cell to and from the cell tray and oven assembly. The fluid communication assembly further causes flow of an extraction fluid into the cell and pressurizes the cell for extraction of an analyte from the sample under elevated temperatures and pressures, which can be under supercritical conditions for supercritical fluid extraction but preferably are below supercritical conditions for solvent extraction. The apparatus and method include a solvent extraction soak, purging of the extracted fluid, flushing with a gas and rinsing so as to avoid contamination of subsequent analyte extractions.