Abstract: A method is provided for preparing a sample of a specimen to be analysed from a thin-layer plate in thin-layer chromatography. The sample is removed from a surface of the thin-layer plate by means of a blade disposed at a receiving opening of a cannula and fed through the cannula to a specimen chamber connected to the cannula. A reduced pressure can be generated in the specimen chamber to suck the sample removed from the thin-layer plate by means of the cannula through the receiving opening into and through the cannula and into the specimen chamber. After removal and feed of the sample, the specimen chamber can be filled with a solvent to dissolve the sample.

Abstract: Portable automated sample preparation device comprising a housing, said housing containing: a collecting chamber for receiving a sample; at least one extraction device comprising an input in operative connection with an output of said collecting chamber, and comprising an output for outputting a concentrated sample; a solvent reservoir adapted to contain solvent, said solvent reservoir being in operative connection with the input of said extraction device; a source of pressurised gas or liquid in operative connection with the collecting chamber and with the solvent reservoir, and arranged to cause said sample and said solvent to pass through said extraction device; a controller adapted to control operation of the extraction device.