Sample Submission

Please note that sample containers (plates, vials, etc.) will not be returned after analysis, unless explicitly requested by the submitter. Excess raw sample material can be returned upon request at the submitter’s expense.

 

Submitting solid samples for EA and EA-IRMS analysis

1. Place packed samples continuously (no gaps) in 96-well cell culture plates. Start from A1 to A12, then B1, etc.
2. A batch must contain a minimum of 10 samples. Maximum number of samples per batch depends on the physical size of the samples.
3. Multiple batches are acceptable, as long as each batch meets the minimum sample requirement and plates are clearly labeled.
4. Place samples in order of increasing isotopic enrichment, if known, as this will minimize carryover effects during analysis.
5. Ask the SIF Manager for a standardized blank sample list file. Otherwise, create a sample list using Excel with column headings: Item (consecutive numerals), Sample Name, Mass (mg), Plate #, Plate position (e.g., A1). PLEASE IDENTIFY WHICH SAMPLES ARE ISOTOPTICALLY ENRICHED.
6. E-mail the completed sample list(s) to SIF Manager immediately prior to scheduled analysis time. Include your last name in the file name.
7. If bringing plates in person, label clearly (your name, the analysis type needed, plate #, etc.) and tape the lid securely with 2 pieces of tape.
8. If plates are mailed, include a hard copy of the sample list(s) with your shipment, clearly label the plates, and secure the lid with tape on all sides.
9. Once samples are received, the SIF reserves the right to alter batch sizes to maximize the efficiency of analysis.

Samples will be analyzed in the order presented on the itemized list; the SIF assumes no responsibility for error if the submitter had intended for the samples to be analyzed in a different order. In all submissions, the contents of the plates must match the corresponding sample list, otherwise analysis may be delayed. All plates must be submitted clean; plates that have visible residue or raw sample exposed from burst sample capsules will not be accepted.

IMPORTANT NOTES:
If you have made a specific appointment for analysis but suspect you cannot keep the appointment, please notify the SIF Manager as soon as possible, otherwise you may be charged a missed appointment fee if the instrument is ready but no one else needs it. If you request an analysis to be halted mid-way due to submitter error, an additional tech time fee will be charged for time needed to recondition and/or reset the instruments. You will be charged for any samples that have already completed analysis.

 

Submitting samples for GC-(C)-IRMS and Trace GC analysis

Liquid analysis
1. For PLFA or NLFA samples, a minimum of 5 samples and a maximum of 24 samples is allowed per analysis session.
2. Multiple batches are welcome as long as each batch meets the required number of samples.
3. Samples on your batch list should be ordered in increasing isotopic enrichment, if known, as this will minimize carryover effects during analysis.
4. Create a sample list using Excel with column headings: Item (consecutive numerals), Sample Name, Tray Coordinates (if applicable). PLEASE IDENTIFY WHICH SAMPLES ARE ISOTOPICALLY ENRICHED.
5. E-mail the completed sample list(s) to the SIF Manager immediately prior to scheduled analysis time.
6. If submitting samples in person, bring your PLFA or NLFA samples dissolved in hexane in labeled, capped GC vials immediately prior to scheduled analysis time.
7. If samples are mailed, we can accept well-sealed PLFA or NLFA extracts dissolved in hexane inside GC vials. Check with your local courier regulations. If samples dissolved in hexane cannot be shipped, send dried extracts with instructions on how to dissolve and prepare for analysis. Technician costs for time and materials will apply. Include a hard copy of the sample list with your shipment.

Gas analysis
1. Gas samples should be submitted to the SIF in well-labeled Exetainer vials with properly secured septum caps, in gas bags, or in another gas-tight container of your choice.
2. For GC-IRMS, an analysis batch containing a minimum of 8 samples and a maximum of 32 samples is accepted.
3. Multiple batches are welcome as long as each batch meets the required number of samples.
4. For Trace GC, an analysis batch containing a minimum of 10 samples is accepted. As many samples can be analyzed in a given day depending on the user.

For any glass vials mailed from off campus, ensure that they are well-labeled and properly packaged and cushioned for transit. Please include a hard copy of the sample list in your shipment and also send an electronic copy. Sample vials that have broken upon arrival will be discarded.

IMPORTANT NOTES:
For all GC analyses, please ensure that you have secured instrument time and that your samples are ready by the appointed date and time. If there is instrument trouble when your samples are already prepared, you will be notified. Please notify the SIF Manager as soon as possible if you suspect your GC samples will be late, otherwise you may be charged a missed appointment fee if the instrument is ready but no one else needs it. If you request an analysis to be halted mid-way due to submitter error, an additional tech time fee will be charged for time needed to recondition and/or reset the instruments. You will be charged for any samples that have already completed analysis.