A new generation of systems for safer, faster and more flexible microwave sample preparation

Laboratory products

A new generation of systems for safer, faster and more flexible microwave sample preparation

16 Sep, 2026

Milestone’s latest ETHOS microwave labstations from Analytix bring together advanced microwave hardware, intuitive software, reaction control sensors and high-performance vessels in one fully integrated platform. Designed primarily for closed-vessel acid digestion, the four systems also support a wide range of laboratory workflows, including microwave solvent extraction, organic and inorganic synthesis, protein hydrolysis, ashing and vacuum evaporation.

Whether the priority is higher throughput, easier handling, consistent digestion quality or robust safety, the new ETHOS family offers a scalable choice for laboratories working across environmental, food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, organic and industrial samples.

Designed for higher performance

The ETHOS EASY, UP and PLUS systems feature a microwave cavity of more than 70 litres, that allows the use of digestion and extraction rotors with more sample positions, helping laboratories improve throughput without compromising performance. Dual magnetrons deliver up to 1900 watts of microwave power, while a rotating diffuser distributes energy evenly throughout the cavity for rapid heating and effective digestion or extraction of challenging matrices.

Key benefits at a glance

  • Durable stainless steel hardware with corrosion-resistant cavity coating.
  • Flexible rotor options for digestion, extraction, ashing and evaporation.
  • Easy-to-use touchscreen control with icon-driven, multi-language software.
  • Hundreds of preloaded methods, including US EPA applications.
  • Fast vessel assembly and handling through unique vessel design.
  • Advanced reaction monitoring for consistent, reproducible results.

Flexible rotor choices

A broad range of rotors is available to match throughput, pressure and application requirements. Options include the high-pressure rotor with up to 15 vessels, the medium-pressure rotor for high sample throughput, and the hybrid rotor for laboratories needing both high performance and high capacity. Additional rotors support evaporation, ashing and protein hydrolysis, with reaction sensors helping ensure safe, controlled operation.

Intuitive control and connected support

The ETHOS control terminals provide bright, full-colour touchscreen operation, with capabilities that can extend from balance connection through to the latest Milestone AI Agent. Users can recall a stored method or create a new one, press start, and allow the system to follow the required temperature profile using sophisticated control algorithms. The software automatically regulates microwave power without requiring users to enter the number of samples or sample weights, simplifying operation and supporting consistent preparation quality.

All systems include Milestone Connect, a web-based application that provides remote monitoring and access to up-to-date instrument information. Available from PCs, tablets and smartphones, Milestone Connect includes equipment details, technical notes, manuals, video tutorials, application notes, scientific articles and online support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Built-in safety

Safety is central to the ETHOS design. The full stainless-steel door incorporates an innovative opening and self-resealing mechanism: in the event of sudden over-pressurisation, the door opens slightly to release pressure safely, microwave power is immediately cut, and the cavity then reseals. Automatic door locking prevents access during the run and keeps the door locked until solutions have cooled to a user-defined temperature.

ETHOS LEAN: compact, capable and economical

New for 2026, ETHOS LEAN offers high-quality closed-vessel acid digestion and extraction in a compact footprint. The infrared sensor monitors vessel temperature to support reproducible results, while the stainless steel, corrosion-resistant construction is designed for long service life. The system uses a touchscreen control terminal with preloaded methods and intuitive software for straightforward daily operation.

Rotor options include the 14 position MAXI-14 for general environmental and organic samples, and the high-pressure MAXI-14HP for more demanding food, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical matrices. A high-pressure 6 position rotor is available for reactive samples, difficult matrices and larger sample sizes.

Food laboratories: industry report available

Demand for trace metals analysis in food laboratories continues to grow as regulations become stricter and detection limits move lower. With many laboratories transitioning from ICP to ICP-MS, sample preparation is increasingly important. An industry report is available covering food sample preparation and recovery data for certified reference food materials using the ETHOS Labstation and MAXI-24HP rotor.

Find out more: Contact Analytix to discuss the ETHOS range, compare available configurations, or request the food laboratory industry report.

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Lab Asia 33.4 - August 2026

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