How does it work?

The InnovaPrep technology utilizes proven, industry standard filtration methods to capture target size particles; then our unique (and patent pending) elution method is employed to elute the captured particles into ultra small liquid volumes.

What makes the InnovaPrep different?

Different from what? The InnovaPrep is in a class all its own. Never before has there been a concentrator/sample prep system that is this robust, automated, low maintenance, easy to use, fast or efficient. There is no competing technology which can accept such a wide range of input volumes, from ultra-pure water to dirty environmental samples; and concentrate them efficiently to such low volumes.  The InnovaPrep concentration process concentrates the incoming sample into a separate fluid controlled by the user, enabling buffer exchange or exchange into a fluid suitable for the end detection method.

Is the InnovaPrep a detector?

No. The InnovaPrep was however developed to improve the effectiveness of most detectors by delivering a concentrated sample for analysis.

Is the InnovaPrep a sampler?

No. However the InnovaPrep is ideally suited to be integrated with various air to liquid samplers for delivery of high concentration samples.

Will the InnovaPrep concentrate solutions?

No. The InnovaPrep will concentrate most suspensions.

Will the InnovaPrep concentrate small and complex particles such as DNA?

Yes. The InnovaPrep has been shown to concentrate DNA, viruses, and proteins/toxins in the size range of approximately 0.01 micron to 20 microns diameter.

Can the InnovaPrep be used for sample cleanup?

Yes. InnovaPrep concentration cells are particle size selective and can be chosen to either pass all particles below a certain target size or retain all particles above a certain target size.

Can the InnovaPrep be integrated into an existing system?

Yes. We work with our clients to engineer and build custom OEM concentration/sample prep systems that will integrate seamlessly with their existing equipment.

Can the InnovaPrep be used for separations?

Yes. A single InnovaPrep unit can be used to separate bacteria and viruses for example. Multiple units can be setup in a cascade arrangement, e.g. the first unit could capture and concentrate >2 micron particles while the next stage could capture and concentrate >0.1 micron particles and so on. Dissolved solids and chemicals will pass into the permeate for analysis without the interference of solid particles.

Does the InnovaPrep system require extensive training or technical skill to operate?

No. In most situations, the operator will simply load the sample and press “start”- the rest is carried out automatically. The system needs to be set up for the particular application before the concentration can begin; this involves selecting the proper type of concentration cell (usually with the assistance of InnovaPrep technicians), changing a few settings on the InnovaPrep unit to match the cell chosen, selecting the desired extraction volume and loading the extraction fluid. Once the unit is set up, hundreds of concentrations can be run at the touch of a button. The procedure is straightforward, and most users can be proficient after a day of training.

Are biological particles still viable after concentration?

Yes. Unless the organism in question is unusually delicate, the InnovaPrep has essentially no effect on viability; so plating or other growth dependent analysis methods can be employed.

Is it easy to decontaminate the InnovaPrep?

Yes. In most situations, the InnovaPrep can be decontaminated by using a hydrogen peroxide or bleach decon solution and a short automated decon cycle. In situations where zero carry-over is essential, the system can be configured to use disposable concentration cells where no internal tubing comes in contact with the sample.

Can the InnovaPrep aerosolize particles during the extraction?

No. An aerosol inlet coupled with a HEPA filtered vacuum pump is activated during the extraction cycle to capture any particles in the unlikely event they are aerosolized during the final extraction. The door on the front of the unit also prevents aerosolized particles from being carried into the lab by air gusts.