Blade

Automated microwave digestion system for all sample types

The BLADE microwave digestion system simplifies elemental sample preparation while increasing laboratory throughput. By combining fast digestion, simplified vessel handling, automated workflows, and flexible sample processing, the system helps laboratories process a wide range of samples in less time without compromising performance or traceability.

Fast microwave digestion for higher throughput

The BLADE was developed for laboratories where throughput is a priority. It combines advanced vortexing with CEM’s Single Mode Cavity™ (SMC) technology to deliver high watt-density directly to each sample. This enables clear digestions in a fraction of the time required by traditional microwave digestion systems.

Complete digestion cycles, including cooling, are completed within minutes. Because samples and acid combinations can be mixed during the same processing sequence, laboratories spend less time organizing separate digestion batches. The system also allows users to interrupt an active sample queue to add priority or rush samples without disrupting the overall workflow.

After digestion, the sample rack can simply be removed and transported to the fume hood for final dilution, reducing handling steps and supporting efficient laboratory operation.

Simple vessel preparation

Sample preparation is designed to require minimal manual effort. Users add the sample, stir bar, and acid to the high-purity quartz vessel before attaching the Easy Snap Cap.

The Easy Snap Cap creates an airtight seal without vessel assembly or torquing. After digestion, the cap can be removed immediately for dilution. Because the cap is disposable, there is no need to clean seal plugs or reusable vessel caps, reducing preparation and cleanup time.

The BLADE uses a single high-purity quartz vessel for routine applications, eliminating the need to maintain multiple vessel sizes. For hydrofluoric acid (HF) or other specialty applications, a fully wetted PTFE liner is available.

The digestion process itself is equally straightforward. Once the vessel is placed in the autosampler, the desired method is selected and the system automatically completes the digestion cycle, including cooling.

Workflow automation from balance to analysis

The BLADE supports laboratory workflows beyond digestion alone. Barcode scanning enables sample tracking from balance to analysis, while continuous sequential automation allows uninterrupted sample processing.

Unlike conventional systems, the BLADE automatically loads vessels into the microwave cavity, seals each vessel individually, unloads the vessels after digestion, and returns them to the sample rack after cooling. No manual vessel loading, clamps, external pressurization steps, or manual unloading are required. This automation minimizes operator exposure to acids and acid fumes while maximizing instrument uptime.

Flexible sample preparation

The system can process a broad range of sample types using pre-programmed digestion methods. It can digest simple organic materials, including food and plant samples, as well as more demanding matrices such as bunker oil, PET, and catalysts. Different sample types and acid combinations can be processed during the same sequence.

Available methods support acids including:

• Nitric acid (HNO₃)
• Hydrochloric acid (HCl)
• Hydrofluoric acid (HF)

The pre-programmed methods eliminate routine method development and provide recommendations for sample size and acid selection, helping laboratories select appropriate digestion conditions.

Monitoring and system operation

The BLADE operates through an integrated 10-inch high-definition touchscreen that displays all run conditions, including graphs, on a single screen.

An integrated high-definition camera allows users to observe digestions in real time during operation. The system also features a Visual Light Indicator (VLI), enabling technicians to determine system status from across the laboratory without continuously monitoring the instrument.

Control and CFR Compliance

The BLADE directly measures, controls, and documents the temperature and pressure of every individual sample throughout the digestion process. All operating conditions are recorded electronically and can be retrieved later for verification, documentation, or audit purposes.

For laboratories operating under 21 CFR Part 11 requirements, the system includes a dedicated CFR Mode. This software provides features including user access control, audit trails, passwords, electronic signatures, and other functionality required for compliance with 21 CFR Part 11 Subparts A-C.

Single Mode Cavity technology

The BLADE uses the company’s Single Mode Cavity™ (SMC) technology, which automatically adjusts microwave energy to match each sample and its acid matrix. By directing optimized microwave power to each individual sample, the system enables faster, safer, and more complete digestions while maintaining consistent processing conditions.

Accurate trace metal determination in food samples

Accurate trace metal analysis is essential for proper food labeling and consumer safety. Combining a single mode cavity with rapid vortexing, the BLADE can digest these difficult samples quickly, completely, without requiring similar samples in a single batch. Check out this application note highlighting the digestion and analysis of various food samples.