Corporate Retrospective 2007: Spark Holland

After 25 years of success, Spark Holland also celebrates its 25th anniversary with a view in retrospect.

In 1982, Spark started pioneering technology that lead to manufacturing state-of-art autosamplers as an OEM product for major HPLC system suppliers. Its OEM format was, and still is, one of partnership, understanding the values of technical integrity, company reliability, customization, service and above all, invisibility for the end-user.

In the 25 years Spark autosamplers have evolved from heavy robust machinery into a piece of hi-tech laboratory instrumentation that includes features such as double needle technology, temperature control and extensive wash routines. They found their way to numerous applications. The current top of the line units outperform all other autosamplers on the market in carry-over performance and yet again underline that the quest for superior technology has become second nature to Spark.

At the same time, Spark familiarized itself with SPE technology, established a new standard in sorbent carriers for online SPE technology and introducing it in the late 1990s. Continuous end-user feedback shaped its philosophy on lab efficiency, ease of operation and a focus on seamless integration of sample extraction, preparation and LC–MS. In 2003, Spark introduced XLC–MS with integrated sample (pre)treatment, online extraction and LC–MS. It allows raw untreated samples to be analyzed in a closed cycle, protecting samples and scientist.

Developments continue and today Spark is researching Induction Based Fluidics technology (IBF) to allow spotting pico-size volumes in an autosampler and with the introduction of online SPE technology into the clinical laboratories, Spark Holland's role in the efficiency of analytical laboratories promises to be a sparkling one.

Congratulations to LCGC on their 25th anniversary.

Spark Holland