Microwave Autoclave for High-Pressure, High-Throughput Sample Preparation
Milestone's patented UltraClave is the only instrument of its kind—a revolutionary development in the field of microwave chemistry. It combines microwave heating with high-pressure vessel technology, enabling researchers to conduct batch reactions at pressures and temperatures up to 200 bar (2,900 psig) and 280°C.
How the UltraClave Works
The UltraClave was specifically designed for semi-automated batch processing of samples—ideal for high-throughput or large-volume applications. Loading and unloading of sample containers is the only manual operation required. All other functions (raising/lowering the vessel cover, inert gas pressurization & venting, etc.) is performed automatically under computer control.
The 3.5-liter reaction chamber of the UltraClave allows processing of multiple samples—rotors with as many as 50 positions are available—or a single large reaction mixture. Reactions can be scaled from microliters to 3 liters, under identical conditions using the same reaction system. Continuous, unpulsed delivery of microwave power provides the most precise possible control over reaction conditions, from millisecond to millisecond.
Power for Difficult Applications
The UltraClave can be equipped to perform diverse chemical research applications, from automation of micro-scale combinatorial synthesis reactions to heterogeneous catalysis. It supports acid digestion of large organic samples (up to 50 grams of organic matter), ideal for clinical or environmental work. It is capable of total decomposition of samples for ultra-trace metals analysis by ICP-MS.
The UltraClave is designed for safe processing of hazardous samples, such as radioactive waste, toxic chemicals, chemotherapy drugs, explosive and pyrophoric materials, and anti-bioterrorism research. Semi-automated operation and complete computer control allow the UltraClave to be adapted for remote operation within special enclosures. Nitrogen pressure compensation within the UltraClave allows chemical neutralization or destruction procedures to be performed on samples in their original vials, without transfer steps and operator exposure.
Advantages of the UltraClave
- High Throughput. Process as many as 40 samples per batch, using standard TFM or quartz vials, without the need for capping or uncapping.
- High Temperature. Temperatures up to 280°C can be sustained safely. Pressure (and therefore boiling point) increases automatically along with temperature, so that boiling temperature is never reached.
- Identical Temperature and Pressure conditions for all samples. Since all vessels reside in the same chamber, conditions of temperature and pressure are identical across every sample.
- No cross-contamination. In tests, no carry-over of analytes from one sample vessel to another is observed.
- Full automation. The UltraClave's automated operation minimizes the need for labor.
- Minimum operating costs. With virtually no consumable parts, the UltraClave is extremely cost-effective over the long term.
- Highest safety. Based on high-pressure autoclave designs, the UltraClave is equipped with advanced safety features to ensure long instrument lifetime and complete operator safety.
- Wide range of applications.
