Automated preparation of sample materials for chemical analysis

A method of automated preparation of a sample material for a chemical or compositional analysis comprising:

• arranging the sample material in a receptacle;
• storing the sample inside the receptacle in a conditioning cabinet;
• grinding the sample material by way of a mill apparatus, wherein the mill apparatus comprises an extraction container, at least one grinding element provided in the extraction container and an agitator adapted to move the at least one grinding element relative to the extraction container when the sample material is placed in the extraction container;
• placing the sample material together with the receptacle in the extraction container of the mill apparatus;
• and grinding the receptacle together with the sample material by agitating the extraction container of the mill apparatus, wherein the agitating comprises vibrating or shaking the extraction container such that the at least one grinding element moves inside the extraction container or activating the at least one grinding element by magnetic forces.