Bringing hydrogenation into 21st century

Asynt has announced UK and Scandinavian distribution rights for the Thales Nanotechnology H-Cube continuous flow hydrogenator.

The H-Cube represents the first continuous flow hydrogenation reactor on the market.

Addressing many of the issues arising from traditional batch methods for heterogeneous hydrogenation, the H-Cube is amazingly compact (only 0.3M3), portable and designed to be used in a standard lab fume hood.

Reactions at up to 100C and up to 100 bar can be performed with ease on milligrams to multi-gram quantities.

Unlike traditional methods which require an external hydrogen source such as a lecture bottle, the H-Cube generates the required quantity of hydrogen internally via the electrolytic decomposition of water.

Reaction parameters such as pressure, temperature, flow rate and hydrogen production can be easily controlled and monitored with the simple to use touch screen panel.

This, coupled with the HPLC technology, means that minimal training is required and reductions are easier to perform.

The H-Cube works by passing the reaction mixture through a flow channel, mixing it with the hydrogen gas at a desired pressure.

This mixture is then heated prior to its passage through the catalyst cartridge.

This purpose designed, disposable cartridge, the CatCart, improves safety and usability, negating the need for further filtration, thus avoiding the subsequent hazards attached.

The novel design means that fast and cost-efficient hydrogenation is coupled with superior yield.

A large range of catalysts are also available allowing an extensive cross-section of reactions to be performed.

Working in such flow channels facilitates fast reaction optimisation and the opportunity for automation.

Two processes which are very cumbersome in batch reactors.

The H-Cube is the latest product in the Asynt portfolio and represents the biggest innovation in hydrogenation technology in years, says the company.