Which laboratories is ETHOS LEAN designed for?
Traditionally, small microwave digestion systems have been designed with fixed configurations and low temperature or pressure capabilities, often limiting the range of samples a laboratory can process.
ETHOS LEAN changes this approach. Laboratories can digest a wide range of samples and matrices without any restrictions on sample type, sample mass, temperature, or pressure. It is designed for laboratories that need reliable microwave digestion with a moderate throughput.
With its compact footprint, affordable configuration, and rotor-based flexibility, ETHOS LEAN fits easily into laboratories with limited space and controlled sample volumes, or evolving application needs.
While ETHOS LEAN is also part of Milestone’s broader microwave labstation approach. The system can support additional applications through dedicated accessories, such as extraction, evaporation, concentration.
Why choose ETHOS LEAN?
ETHOS LEAN brings Milestone’s proven rotor-based microwave digestion expertise into a compact, affordable platform. It provides full-performance closed-vessel acid digestion in a focused platform aligned with real laboratory workflows today and ready to support future applications.
Reliable digestion in a compact format
Controlled digestion process, and robust vessel design help laboratories achieve reproducible results run after run. It ensures the digestion confidence expected from a Milestone platform in a compact configuration to match the lab’s operational needs.
The right capacity for you
ETHOS LEAN fits for laboratories routinely processing moderate sample volumes, where reliability and safety, are nevertheless important. It is ideal for:
- Quality control laboratories with medium workloads.
- Academic/research laboratories requiring digestion flexibility and extra application capabilities.
Safety engineered into every digestion cycle
Microwave digestion involves elevated temperatures, pressures, and concentrated acids, making safety a fundamental part of the instrument design. ETHOS LEAN is built around Milestone’s safety philosophy, combining robust construction, controlled digestion conditions, and reliable vessel technology.
Flexible rotors for evolving applications
ETHOS LEAN offers compatibility with multiple digestion rotors and allows laboratories to configure the platform around their current digestion requirements and expand capabilities as sample types, matrices, or analytical requirements evolve.

Designed for optimal performance and durability
The robust design of the ETHOS LEAN hardware guarantees reliable performance for decades. All Milestone vessels are made from high-purity PTFE-TFM and are protected by reinforced safety shields, ensuring maximum resistance and structural integrity.
Quality and traceability
ETHOS LEAN supports laboratories that need a controlled and traceable workflows. The software provides secure data management, full traceability, and compliance with CFR 21 Part 11 requirements. Together with the Milestone Validation Package, analytical laboratories in regulated industries can meet strict compliance standards.
How does ETHOS LEAN adapt to different digestion needs?
The rotor technology of ETHOS LEAN ensures reliable and accurate sample preparation for ICP-OES and ICP-MS analysis. Users can select the rotor configuration that best matches their samples, matrices, and throughput needs.
ETHOS LEAN can be adapted over time by adding dedicated digestion rotors as laboratory requirements evolve. This flexibility helps laboratories protecting their investment in a system designed to grow with future requirements.
How can a User Interface simplify daily operation?
ETHOS LEAN is operated through a dedicated terminal and easyCONTROL 3, Milestone’s latest software designed to make microwave digestion simple, guided, and reproducible. Routine operations require only two steps: select the method and press START, while the system manages the digestion parameters automatically in real time. The intuitive touchscreen, built-in application library, simplify method development, and support consistent results across all vessels.
How does Milestone Connect support your laboratory?
Every ETHOS LEAN user has access to Milestone Connect, Milestone’s customer resource center designed to support laboratories throughout the lifetime of the system. Users can access application resources, methods, maintenance information, troubleshooting guidance, software updates, and practical support materials to simplify daily operation and keep workflows running smoothly.
One platform. Multiple sample preparation possibilities.
ETHOS LEAN extends beyond the microwave digestion process. Thanks to its flexible microwave platform design and dedicated accessories, the system can support additional laboratory applications such as:
- Solvent extraction
- Solvent -free extraction
- Synthesis
- Fusion
Instead of investing in separate instruments for different applications, ETHOS LEAN provides unmatchable flexibility especially valuable for laboratories that need to cover multiple applications. ETHOS LEAN can adapt to evolving research, analytical, and sample preparation needs.