ENVIRONMENTAL LABORATORY
Optimising sample preparation workfl ows for heavy metals and organic pollutants in enviro labs
Environmental testing labs face constant pressure to deliver fast, accurate and compliant results - often with limited time and resources. Optimising sample preparation workfl ows can have a game-changing impact on productivity, safety, and data quality.
Milestone has condensed its industry expertise into a comprehensive free eBook: ‘Optimising Sample Preparation Workfl ows for Heavy Metals and Organic Pollutants in Environmental Labs’.
Inside, you’ll fi nd practical strategies and innovative solutions to: streamline workfl ows, reduce sample preparation time and minimise manual handling, enhance data reliability and regulatory compliance, improve lab safety by reducing exposure to hazardous substances, lower operational costs and achieve measurable ROI.
The book introduces a step-by-step approach to optimizing workfl ows for heavy metals, beginning with direct mercury analysis using the DMA-80 evo, which requires no sample digestion. Compliant with EPA Method 7473, the system enables fast, safe, and reagent-free analysis, reducing costs by up to 90% compared to conventional CVAA methods.
For other heavy metals, a total workfl ow approach is recommended. Acid purifi cation (duoPUR) generates ultra-pure acids on-demand using sub-boiling distillation, reducing dependency on commercial supplies and saving costs. Reagent handling (easyFILL) automates acid dispensing in a sealed environment, enhancing safety, precision, and effi ciency. Vessel handling (easyCAP) automates capping of digestion vessels, minimising operator fatigue and ensuring sealing consistency. Microwave digestion (ETHOS UP / ultraWAVE 3) provides rapid, complete, EPA-compliant digestion with high throughput and minimal contamination. The ultraWAVE 3 supports mixed matrices and uses disposable glass vials to eliminate cleaning. Filtration (SFS-24) allows simultaneous fi ltration of 24 samples under vacuum, improving speed and reducing cross-contamination. Labware cleaning (traceCLEAN) uses acid steam in a closed chamber to clean vessels safely and effi ciently, freeing digestion systems for core activities.
Another section outlines optimised workfl ows for analysing organic pollutants, typically extracted with solvents. Traditional methods like Soxhlet and PFE are laborious, slow, and hazardous. Microwave extraction (ETHOS X) replaces older methods with fast, reproducible extraction using disposable glass vials, reducing solvent use and eliminating cleaning steps. Processes 24 samples in 40 minutes. As with metals, fi ltration (SFS-24) enables simultaneous fi ltration, improving effi ciency. Disposable inserts further eliminate cross-contamination risks and reduce labour.
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ICMGP 2026 to Make Historic Debut in Southeast Asia
Microwave assisted extraction for PFAS analysis - new application note
Many laboratories measure PFAS in a variety of different matrices where the sample preparation stage can often be the time limiting step that can take up to 80% of the total analysis time. An alternative method that is currently widely used for sample preparation for organic pollutant analysis is Microwave Assisted Extraction (MAE) that can now be employed for PFAS samples using a new rotor specifi cally developed for this application.
Using the Milestone EthosX MAE system from Analytix coupled with the 44-place rotor provides an EPA 1633 compliant solution and offers high throughput with PFAS free disposable vials that eliminates any cleaning stage. The samples are kept in the same vial throughout the process thereby minimising contamination, eliminating possible carryover, and reducing sample extraction time by 70%.
Advanced sensors in the EthosX MAE system deliver precise temperature control throughout the extraction process with uniform conditions across all positions that guarantees consistent and reproducible results with excellent recoveries vs. alternative techniques.
The 17th edition of the International Conference on Mercury as a Global Pollutant (ICMGP) will be held in Hyderabad India from October 4–9, 2026, marking a historic milestone as the conference convenes for the fi rst time in Southeast Asia. This event aims to centre regional voices, strengthen global collaboration, and catalyse innovative science and policy on mercury pollution.
Hosted under the theme “Mercury Science Driving Global Change: From South Asia to the World”, ICMGP 2026 will bring together scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, and community stakeholders to address the complex and evolving challenges of mercury pollution—from atmospheric transport and ocean contamination to environmental health and bioaccumulation.
The Scientifi c Steering Committee (SSC) met recently to lay the foundation for an inclusive, scientifi cally rich, and policy-relevant program. With confi rmed participation from 14 internationally recognised experts across disciplines and regions, the planning process is well underway.
“We are proud to bring ICMGP to Southeast Asia for the very fi rst time,” said Prof. Asif Qureshi, SSC member from the Indian Institute of Technology-Hyderabad. “This edition is not only about mercury science—it’s about elevating Global South perspectives and creating pathways where scientifi c discovery directly informs environmental policy.”
The organising committee has outlined a strategic vision with four core pillars. Equitable representation: ensuring inclusive participation across regions, disciplines, and career stages. Global South focus: highlighting mercury-related challenges unique to India and the wider Global South. Scientifi c excellence: delivering high-quality theme-based sessions, training workshops, and public engagement programs. Science-policy interface: translating research fi ndings into actionable policy guidance.
The conference program will be structured around eight major themes, refl ecting the multi- disciplinary nature of mercury science: atmosphere, oceans, cryosphere (including the Poles), land and vegetation, bioaccumulation, environmental health, policy and new laboratory analysis or modelling techniques.
In addition to General Sessions welcoming broad participation, ICMGP 2026 will feature Special Sessions on focused topics—ranging from emerging monitoring networks and modelling initiatives to industrial innovations and global policy developments, particularly under the Minamata Convention on Mercury.
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The new application note describes the full procedure for extraction with sample preparation stages and the microwave system method. For a copy of the application note or for further information please contact Analytix.
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