The Mixer Mill MM 400 is a versatile mill that can effectively grind dry, wet, and cryogenic small volumes of up to 2 x 20 ml. Its operation is characterized by mixing and homogenizing powders and suspensions with a frequency of 30 Hz in a matter of seconds, making it exceptionally fast and easy to operate.
This compact benchtop unit is capable of performing both classic homogenization processes and biological cell disruption for DNA/RNA and protein extraction. Additionally, the MM 400 is well-suited for research applications, particularly in the field of mechanochemistry, as it can process samples for up to 99 hours.
No comparable technology in the market offers the same level of performance and flexibility as this mill.
If higher performance is required, the mixer mill models MM 500 nano and MM 500 vario could be suitable, as they operate with the same functional principle but at a frequency of 35 Hz.
The Mixer Mill MM 500 control would be an excellent option for samples that require cooling or heating. Each RETSCH mixer mill is tailored to specific application requirements.
Mixer Mill MM 400 Introduction - Retsch
Video Credit: RETSCH GmbH
Performance and Design
- Powerful size reduction and homogenization by impact and friction with up to 30 Hz
- Fitted with two grinding stations for up to 20 samples per run
- Memory for 12 Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and six program cycles
- Suitable touch display
Unmatched Versatility
- Three different grinding modes: Dry, wet, or cryogenic
- Before pelletizing, the powdered sample and binder are mixed in plastic jars, for example, for XRF analysis
- Appropriate for research applications such as mechanochemistry or for biological cell disruption by bead beating
- Extraction of pesticides (QuEChERS) and herbal ingredients
Image Credit: RETSCH GmbH
Calibration Ensures Reproducible Results
In the process chain from sampling to analysis, maintaining reproducibility is crucial. To ensure that results are consistently accurate with minimal standard deviation, it is imperative to use lab equipment that can be calibrated. This is especially important when comparing results generated at different locations.
The MM 400 is the first laboratory mill that can be calibrated, providing an added layer of assurance in achieving reliable and consistent results. RETSCH initially calibrates the mill's time and frequency and offers regular calibration services to ensure that milling processes remain reproducible over time.
This functionality is particularly suitable for:
- Testing labs with different locations
- Accredited labs applying ISO/IEC 17025 or ISO 9000ff
- Pharmaceutical products
Solutions for Biological Applications and Cell Disruption
Mixer mills are commonly used for homogenizing biological samples, primarily through bead beating with small glass beads. This method is well-established for disrupting cells of yeasts, microalgae, and bacteria. The process only moderately warms the sample, and this effect can be minimized by pre-cooling.
With the MM 400, efficient cell disruption of up to 240 ml of cell suspension can be achieved for DNA/RNA and protein extraction. Adapters can be used to isolate intact bacteria from tissue in either 8 x 30 ml bottles or 10 x 5 ml vials, which is particularly useful for the accurate diagnosis of infections.
The MM 400 can be operated with a variety of adapters designed for single-use vials with different capacities:
20 x 0.2 ml / 20 x 1.5 or 2 ml / 10 x 5 ml / 8 x 30 ml / 8 x 50 ml
When it comes to pulverizing 25 to 30 g of plant material, such as cannabis flowers, conical centrifuge tubes are the most suitable option. These tubes are also capable of homogenizing up to eight tissue samples, such as fresh liver in buffer solution, using steel or zirconium oxide balls.
To keep the mechanical stress on the vials as low as possible, a reduced frequency and a high filling level, e.g., with buffer and sample, are recommended.
Mixer Mill MM 400 - Yeast cell disruption #RETSCH #mixermill #laboratoryinstruments
Mixer Mill MM 400 - Yeast Cell Disruption*. Video Credit: RETSCH GmbH
Homogenization of 8 samples of cannabis in 1 step with the MM400 mixer mill
Mixer Mill MM 400 - Homogenization of cannabis*. Video Credit: RETSCH GmbH
*The video shows the previous model with an identical functional principle.