SureSTART collection

Importance of the topic

The selection and quality of autosampler vials, caps and related consumables play a crucial role in ensuring accurate, reproducible results in chromatographic and mass spectrometric analyses. Proper sample containment, low extractables and reliable sealing are essential for reliable quantitative and qualitative data in research, quality control and high-throughput laboratories.

Aims and overview of the product portfolio

This whitepaper presents the Thermo Scientific SureSTART collection, a three-tiered range of chromatographic vials, caps, inserts and well plates. It aims to offer suitable consumable solutions for routine everyday analyses, regulated high-throughput workflows and demanding high-performance applications across GC, HPLC/UHPLC and modern mass spectrometry techniques.

Methodology and product categorization

The SureSTART portfolio is divided into three performance levels:

• Performance level 1 (Everyday analysis): Cost-optimized vials and caps for general GC and HPLC/UHPLC applications with approved reproducibility.
• Performance level 2 (High-throughput analysis): Enhanced robustness, low metal content and consistent quality for regulated environments and routine MS quantification.
• Performance level 3 (High performance): Ultra-clean, trace-level performance with minimal adsorption, certified kits and clean-room packing for high-resolution MS and sensitive analytes.

Used Instrumentation

• Gas chromatography systems (GC)
• High-performance and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography systems (HPLC/UHPLC)
• Mass spectrometers including single and triple quadrupole, accurate-mass Orbitrap and HRAM instruments
• Detectors such as UV/Vis, PDA, RI, ELSD, FLD, FID, NPD, ECD, TCD and FPD

Main results and discussion

• Level 1 products deliver reliable basic performance, compatible with a wide range of detectors and routine quantification.
• Level 2 consumables feature very low extractables, leachables and metal content, assuring compliance in regulated, high-throughput labs.
• Level 3 components offer the lowest adsorption surfaces, certified low-particulate content and advanced closure technologies to maximize sensitivity and selectivity for trace analysis.

Benefits and practical use of the products

• Optimized cost-performance balance for everyday laboratory workflows.
• Regulatory compliance support and robust performance for high sample throughput.
• Enhanced sample integrity and ultra-clean conditions for high-resolution mass spectrometry.
• Flexible options including clear or amber vials, various septa and insert configurations to match sample volume, polarity and stability requirements.

Future trends and possibilities

Advances in material science and surface treatments are expected to further reduce analyte adsorption and contamination risks. Integration of barcoding, automation-friendly formats and continued development of certified low-background consumables will support emerging direct-injection techniques, high-resolution ambient MS and AI-driven data analytics in both research and regulated environments.

Conclusion

The Thermo Scientific SureSTART series provides a comprehensive spectrum of sample handling consumables tailored to specific analytical demands. By selecting the appropriate performance level and configuration, laboratories can achieve robust, reproducible and sensitive results across diverse chromatography and mass spectrometry applications.