Analytical equipment
We have a variety of analytical equipment available at the centre.
Gas chromatography
Gas chromatography (GC) is a flexible technique that allows separation and quantification of chemical substances found within a complex mixture. For example, it can be used for quantification of bioethanol produced during fermentation of biomass-derived sugars or determination of the fatty acid profile in oilseeds.
Specifically, gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) – involves a sample, containing the chemical(s) of interest, being vaporised and injected onto a chromatographic column. The sample is transported through the column by the flow of inert, gaseous mobile phase. The column itself contains a liquid stationary phase which coats the walls of the chromatography column. The chemicals being analysed interact with the stationary phase, with each chemical travelling through the column in a different time – this is known as the retention time. The analytical value of GC is based on the comparison of retention times of different compounds.
Technical specification: the gas chromatograph we have is a HP5890 series II capillary GC, equipped with a 100-sample autosampler and flame ionisation detector (FID). The FID allows detection of most organic chemicals or compounds. Electronic data capture and analysis is performed using DataApex Clarity software.
To use the gas chromatography or find out more about its capabilities, please contact us.
We have an extensive range of downstream processing equipment, see below.
Downstream processing
Counter current liquid-liquid separator/contactor
Our CINC counter current liquid-liquid separator allow liquid/liquid separation of two phases of differing density.
Chromatography systems
Used for purification and separation of complex organic mixtures.
Distillation and evaporation
Our Centritherm® (CT01-9RM) evaporator is one of our distillation units, which is particularly suitable for concentration of materials at relatively low temperatures.
Flavourtech spinning cone
We have a larger version of the Centritherm evaporator, the Flavourtech Spinning Cone, capable of handling up to 1 ton/h of material. The flavourtech spinning cone is a thin-film distillation column, consisting of 21 inverted cones.
Gas chromatography
Gas chromatography (GC) is a flexible technique that allows separation and quantification of chemical substances found within a complex mixture.
Pilot-scale continuous centrifuges
We have two pilot scale continuous centrifuges, capable of operating (depending on feedstock) at process feedstocks rates of up to 100 L/h.
Ultrafiltration and filtration
We have several filtration units available at the BDC.
Let's work together
We have worked on 1,500 bio-based projects to date
We have several ways to work with us, including business advisory programmes and self-funded commercial options. We even have the option for you to hire our state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and office space.
