Tek​​​mar: A history of firsts in Purge & Trap techno​​logy

Tekmar, a Teledyne LABS brand, introduced the first commercial Purge & Trap system in 1975. As an innovator in instruments for trace analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds, Tekmar is synonymous with innovative, high-quality products for VOC analysis that are easy to use and increase productivity in analytical labs worldwide. 

Teledyne LABS works closely with the EPA and others to drive progress in providing exacting measurements that meet or exceed those agencies' parameters. Today, Teledyne LABS is a well-known, well-respected and popular provider of P&T systems used in labs of all sizes and types.​

Understanding Sample Prep's Role in Analytical Succ​​ess

For accurate, trustworthy results, gas chromatography analysis relies heavily on the quality of samples introduced into the system. GC sample preparation techniques directly impact the reliability and accuracy of your analytical results. Even advanced chromatography instruments cannot compensate for preparation deficiencies caused by samples containing interferents or contaminants. This is why Teledyne LABS has focused on automated sample preparation systems that help laboratories achieve consistent results while reducing the potential for human error in routine analytical workflows.

How Sample Quality Affects Labo​​​ratory Efficiency

Inadequate GC sample preparation impacts laboratory operations and increases costs. Contaminated samples require reanalysis, extending turnaround times and increasing reagent consumption. Poor sample quality can damage analytical columns and injection systems, leading to unplanned maintenance and instrument downtime. Teledyne LABS automated preparation systems help laboratories avoid these issues while improving overall analytical productivity and reducing long-term operational expenses.

Meeting Regulatory Standards​ Through Proper Sample Prep

Regulatory compliance requires reproducible analytical methods that begin with consistent sample preparation. Environmental testing laboratories must demonstrate precision and accuracy that depends on standardized preparation protocols. Data integrity relies on proper sample handling throughout the analytical workflow. All Teledyne LABS purge and trap instruments satisfy EPA method guidelines, helping laboratories meet regulatory requirements for VOC analysis and maintain accreditation standards.

Overcoming Environm​​ental Sample Preparation Difficulties

Different sample matrices present specific preparation challenges that require appropriate analytical approaches. Environmental samples often contain complex mixtures that can interfere with target analyte detection. Soil samples may require extraction procedures to separate analytes from matrix components, while water samples need careful handling to prevent volatile compound loss during preparation. Teledyne LABS multi-matrix systems like the Atomx XYZ address these challenges through automated preparation protocols designed for various sample types.

Purge and Trap Sample Introduction Methods

Purge and Trap sample introduction provides the most effective method for volatile organic compound analysis in environmental matrices. Our automated systems handle sample introduction without manual intervention, reducing preparation time and improving reproducibility. The Lumin P&T concentrator integrates with gas chromatography systems to deliver consistent sample introduction across different matrix types. Teledyne LABS' P&T technology eliminates many traditional sample introduction challenges through automated protocols designed specifically for VOC analysis.

Industries Served​ by Teledyn​​e LABS Sample Preparation

Purge and Trap sample preparation serves laboratories across multiple industries that require reliable VOC detection. Environmental, pharmaceutical, food safety, and petrochemical laboratories depend on consistent GC sample preparation to meet their analytical requirements. Each industry presents challenges that require appropriate preparation methods and detection limits. Teledyne LABS systems address these diverse requirements through specialized configurations and automated protocols developed over five decades of industry experience.

Environmental VOC Analysis S​​olutions

Environmental laboratories handle diverse sample types that require specialized preparation approaches for accurate VOC detection. Soil samples contain complex organic matrices that can interfere with target analyte recovery. Water samples must be carefully handled to prevent volatile compound loss during preparation and analysis. The Atomx XYZ multi-matrix system addresses these challenges through automated methanol extraction for high concentration soil samples and closed-system handling for aqueous samples, ensuring compliance with EPA Method 5035 and related analytical protocols.

Food Industry VOC Testing Solutio​​ns

Food and beverage laboratories analyze samples for volatile contaminants, flavor compounds, and packaging-related analytes that require sensitive detection methods. Sample preparation must preserve target compounds while removing matrix interferents that can impact analytical results. Automated GC sample preparation reduces preparation time and improves reproducibility across different food matrices. Teledyne LABS systems provide the sensitivity and precision needed for food safety testing while meeting regulatory requirements for contaminant analysis.

Pharmaceutical VOC Analysis a​nd Testing

Pharmaceutical laboratories require precise analytical methods for drug development, manufacturing quality control, and regulatory compliance testing. GC sample preparation must achieve low detection limits while maintaining analytical precision across different sample types. Teledyne LABS automated systems provide the consistency and reliability that pharmaceutical laboratories need to meet Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements and support drug development programs.

Petrochemical Industry VOC Monit​oring

Petrochemical laboratories analyze crude oil, refined products, and in-service oils for volatile contaminants and degradation products. Sample preparation must handle varying oil viscosities and complex hydrocarbon matrices while maintaining analytical precision. In-service oil analysis helps prevent equipment failures through early detection of contamination and degradation products. Teledyne LABS systems provide automated sample preparation designed for petroleum-based samples, supporting both quality control and predictive maintenance programs in the petrochemical industry.​

Teledyne LABS Supp​ort and Training Services

Optimizing Your VOC Analysis Met​hods

Method development for VOC analysis requires an understanding of both sample matrix characteristics and analytical requirements. Our applications specialists work with laboratories to optimize P&T methods for specific sample types and detection limits. Method optimization may involve adjusting purge conditions, t​rap temperatures, or desorption parameters to achieve optimal analyte recovery. Teledyne LABS consulting services help laboratories develop methods that meet their analytical goals while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements.

Buildin​g Expertise in Sample Preparation

Proper instrument operation and maintenance require a thorough understanding of Purge and Trap principles and best practices. Training programs cover instrument setup, method parameters, routine maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting techniques for optimal system performance. Laboratory personnel learn both theor​​etical concepts and hands-on skills needed for successful VOC analysis. Teledyne LABS training ensures operators can maximize instrument capabilities while maintaining analytical quality and meeting laboratory productivity requirements.

Technical Support Wh​en Issues Arise

Technical issues can disrupt laboratory operations and delay critical analyses. Our support specialists provide remote diagnostics and troubleshooting assistance to help lab​​oratories resolve problems quickly and efficiently. Support services include method troubleshooting, instrument diagnostics, and guidance on routine maintenance procedures. Teledyne LABS technical support helps laboratories maintain consistent analytical performance and minimize instrument downtime through responsive assistance and expert guidance.

Choosing Your Sample Prepara​tion Solution

Selecting the appropriate P&T system requires evaluating your laboratory's sample types, throughput requirements, and analytical goals. Consider whether you need multi-matrix capabilities for soil and water samples, automated sample handling for high-throughput operations, or specialized features for specific EPA methods.

Our applications specialists can help assess your current analytical challenges and recommend systems that address your specific requirements. Contact Teledyne LABS to discuss how our Purge and Trap technology can improve your VOC analysis capabilities.​

Frequently Asked Questions

​What is Gas Chromatography?​​

​Gas chromatography (​GC) is an analytical technique used to separate, identify, and quantify components in complex mixtures. This method has revolutionized chemical analysis across industries, from environmental monitoring to pharmaceutical research.​ Read More >​

What ​​does VOC testing​​ cost?

​Depending on the type of test and the sample matrix, whether it be synthetic materials or otherwise, laboratory analysis to conduct a VOC test typically costs between $150-$300.

What is a volatile organic compound? What is a semi-volatile organic compound?

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a group of chemicals that can readily transform into vapor (a gas) at lower temperatures. VOCs are more likely to be dispersed, and monitored for, in the air, impacting outdoor and indoor air quality.

Semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) are more likely to be liquid samples or solid materials at lower temperatures. Some examples of products that include SVOCs are pesticides, oil-based products, and fire retardants. Some building materials also contain SVOCs and indoor air quality can be affected by VOCs.

Some types of VOCs and SVOCs carry documented health risks.

Why are VOCs harmful?

According to the Ohio Department of Health:

“Exposure to VOCs can cause a range of possible harmful health effects. VOCs are a class of chemicals, not a single chemical. The health effects they could cause will depend on the exact exposure. Some VOCs are known to be highly toxic while others have no known health risks. Because VOCs create strong odors, even relatively low levels can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, nosebleeds, fatigue (tiredness), nausea, and dizziness. Some people may experience an allergic skin reaction, such as itching, rashes or hives. People with asthma and other lung illnesses may have their conditions aggravated by exposure to VOCs. Exposure to very high levels of VOCs may cause damage to the liver, kidney, or central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). High levels may also cause vision and memory problems.”

What are three volatile organic compounds?

There are dozens of volatile organic compounds found in natural and synthetic materials -- everything from building materials and other solid materials, to structurally diverse liquids, including drinking water. Air quality also is impacted by VOCs. Emissions testing can also be part of the process to detect VOCs. Three VOCs are gasoline, benzene and acetone.​​​