Accelerated Solvent Extraction (ASE)
Accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), a process involving the use of solvents such as ethanol, methanol, and acetone for extracting environmental samples, has recently gained much popularity for its efficiency and precision in both separating and detecting volatile chemical analytes. This type of analysis can be used to detect contaminants in drinking water, identify trace elements in soil, and measure concentrations of drug molecules in blood.
The ASE process was first developed by CTC Analytics AG in Switzerland in the late 90s. Since its invention, ASE has been widely accepted by the scientific community as an effective technique for quickly and accurately extracting and analyzing samples. Its primary benefit is the speed and precision with which it can extract samples compared to other methods, such as Soxhlet extraction, which rely on manual techniques.
ASE is based on the principle of supercritical fluid extraction, the process of using a high-pressure fluid such as carbon dioxide to extract compounds from solid or semi-solid sources. Unlike other methods of sample extraction, ASE does not require any solvent to be added to the sample prior to extraction, thereby reducing the amount of dilution and potential contamination.
Compared to traditional time-consuming, labor-intensive sample extraction techniques, ASE requires significantly less time and involves fewer steps. For example, it can be used to extract samples in as little as 60 minutes and can be completed in fewer than five steps. This makes ASE ideal for laboratories that are pressed for time or need to quickly obtain results from their samples.
Additionally, ASE offers several safety benefits. It is considered a “greener” technology since it does not require the use of traditional toxic, polluting substances. Furthermore, it is safer than some of the older manual techniques, such as Soxhlet extraction, as it is conducted at a cool temperature, which minimizes solvent evaporation and the risk of fire.
Reasons to Use ASE
• ASE can significantly reduce the time and labour needed to extract samples, making it ideal for laboratories that are pressed for time or need to quickly obtain results from their samples.
• ASE is considered to be a “greener” technology, as it does not require the use of traditional toxic, polluting substances.
• ASE is a safe technique as it is conducted at a cool temperature, which minimizes solvent evaporation and the risk of fire.
• ASE can be used to extract samples in as little as 60 minutes and can be completed in fewer than five steps.
• ASE is highly precise, with results of up to three decimal places.
• ASE is an effective technique for both separating and detecting volatile chemical analytes
Conclusion
In conclusion, ASE offers significant advantages over traditional sample extraction methods. It is a quick, efficient, and precise technique for extracting environmental samples, and its environmental safety benefits make it an attractive option for laboratories that are interested in utilizing green practices. Additionally, its ability to reduce the time and labour needed to extract samples make it ideal for laboratories that are pressed for time or need to quickly obtain results from their samples.
