TriPlus RSH SMART robotic sampling system

Importance of the Topic

Gas chromatography (GC) remains a cornerstone technique in analytical chemistry, requiring reliable, precise, and reproducible sample introduction to ensure high-quality data. Automated sampling workflows reduce human error, increase laboratory throughput, and support regulatory compliance. The TriPlus RSH SMART autosampler integrates robotic handling with consumable tracking to elevate GC and GC-MS performance across diverse applications.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note describes the capabilities and advantages of the Thermo Scientific TriPlus RSH SMART autosampler. Key objectives include demonstrating its flexibility for liquid, headspace, SPME, and dynamic headspace (ITEX-DHS) injections; its automated multi-step preparation workflows; and its SMART consumable management for traceability and GLP compliance.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The system employs a six-position Automatic Tool Change (ATC) for syringe exchanges, enabling complex dilution, derivatization, and calibration routines without manual intervention. Sampling modes include split/splitless, PTV, cold on-column, static headspace, SPME, and ITEX-DHS. Integration with Chromeleon CDS provides sequence setup, SMART chip identification, and usage tracking. Instrumentation Used:

• Thermo Scientific TriPlus RSH SMART autosampler with ATC
• Chromeleon chromatography data system
• GC or GC-MS systems (single or dual configuration)

Main Results and Discussion

Micro-sample injections down to 5 µL showed RSDs around 2 %. Large vial capacity (up to 972 × 2 mL) supports 24/7 unattended operation. Splitless injection of hydrocarbon standards yielded RSDs below 0.5 %. SPME-Arrow and HRAM Orbitrap GC-MS analyses of botanical and adulterated spice samples demonstrated reproducible total ion chromatograms. ITEX-DHS enabled trace volatile detection in drinking water, tuning sensitivity via stroke count. Automated dilutions, standard additions, vortexing, centrifugation, and derivatization cycles proved robust and error-free through the ATC and Sampling Workflow Editor.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Enhanced precision and reproducibility across injection techniques
• Scalable automation for basic injections to multi-step sample prep
• Laboratory efficiency gains from large capacity and unattended runs
• SMART consumable management ensuring full traceability and GLP compliance
• Flexible dual-GC or dual-GC-MS configurations for simultaneous screening and confirmation

Conclusion

The TriPlus RSH SMART autosampler delivers a versatile, high-throughput solution for modern GC workflows. Its robotic handling, ATC capability, and SMART consumables ensure reliable data quality, reduced manual errors, and seamless integration within Chromeleon CDS. Laboratories benefit from improved productivity, robust traceability, and the flexibility to tackle diverse sample types and analytical challenges.

Future Trends and Applications

Emerging needs for ultra-trace analysis, high-throughput screening, and complex sample preparation will drive further integration of robotics with advanced detector technologies. Upcoming developments may include AI-driven workflow optimization, expanded SMART consumable ecosystems, and tighter coupling with mass spectrometric and spectroscopic detectors for real-time decision making and adaptive sampling.