Analytical equipment
We have a variety of analytical equipment available at the centre.
Benchtop NMR analyser
The Benchtop NMR Analyser is based on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and allows for fast, accurate, reproducible and solvent-free measurement of oil, fat and moisture in oil seeds, seed cake and foodstuffs.
NMR is based on the ability of hydrogen protons in a sample, placed within a strong magnetic field, to resonate when pulsed with radio waves of a specific frequency. The protons absorb and re-emit the radio energy. By measuring the intensity of the emitted energy and calibrating the emitted resonance signal against samples of known content, it is possible to perform quantitative measurements.
Weighed samples, loaded into tubes, can be measured directly without the need for grinding or other forms of sample preparation, in most cases. The instrument takes measurements on the constituent of interest in its natural state, with the measurements only taking a few seconds. Accurate measurements are guaranteed as the NMR signal is generated from all parts of the sample, not just the surface.
Applications include oil and moisture content of oil seeds as part of breeding programs or field trials. Oil seed crushing or expelling can be monitored by determining the oil content in both seed and presscake – providing near-immediate feedback on equipment/process performance.
Technical specification; our instrument is the Oxford Instruments MQC-23, with 18 mm and 26 mm probes.
To use the benchtop NMR Analyser or find out more about its capabilities, please contact us.
We have an extensive range of product evaluation equipment, see below.
Product evaluation
Benchtop NMR analyser
The Benchtop NMR Analyser is based on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and allows for fast, accurate, reproducible and solvent-free measurement of oil, fat and moisture in oil seeds, seed cake and foodstuffs.
Gas chromatography with autosampler capabilities
Gas chromatography (GC) is a flexible technique that allows separation and quantification of chemical substances found within a complex mixture.
Gas chromatography
Gas chromatography (GC) is a flexible technique that allows separation and quantification of chemical substances found within a complex mixture.
High performance liquid chromatography
High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a flexible technique that allows separation and quantification of chemical substances found within a complex mixture.
Microbiology facilities
Our microbiology laboratory offers a range of equipment allowing users to safely handle, store and work with a variety of aerobic and anaerobic microbes, at ACDP hazard category II level.
Oxidative stability analyser
The Metrohm Rancimat helps us determine the oxidation stability of natural fats and oils. The instrument works on the principle of passing air through a test sample at an elevated temperature, causing accelerated aging of the sample.
Plant growth trials
We use plant growth trials to assess the performance of new products and processes, such as seed treatments and new bio-based fertilisers, or newly generated plant growth media incorporating bio-based materials or by-products.
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.
