Fraunhofer ICT offers R&D services in the field of chemical synthesis, process development, reaction and process optimization and process analytical technologies (PAT) based on flow chemistry and continuous processing.
Continuous chemical processing, which makes use of process intensification and flow reactors, is a key element in the future production and development of chemical high-value products and materials.
Fraunhofer ICT has been developing continuous processes for more than 20 years, for process optimization and production. It offers experience and expertise in the area of flow chemistry and micro process engineering, extending from the analysis, design and optimization of chemical processes to the synthesis of specialty and fine chemicals, and the development of tailored flow processes for use in laboratories and small-scale production plants.
Process analysis is an essential tool for the design, diagnostics, optimization and control of chemical processes. Depending on the specific task, spectroscopic analytical techniques, e.g. UV/Vis, NIR, MIR and Raman spectroscopy, are adapted to continuous processes as inline, online or at-line measurement technologies. In particular, techniques with a high degree of temporal and spatial resolution are used.
Besides spectroscopy, an in-house developed flow reaction calorimeter allows for unique and detailed insights into chemical processes. It permits rapid screening of thermokinetic data, making kinetic constants and safety-relevant data available in the early stages of process development. This is achieved by a temporally and locally-resolved measurement concept which can be adapted to a variety of different flow reactor types and sizes at a wide range of reaction temperatures and pressures.
Another special field of research is the development of processes for the safe management of reactions that are potentially explosive or otherwise hazardous. Fraunhofer ICT has more than 50 years of expertise in the area of explosive synthesis, handling of toxic, explosive or otherwise unstable products and intermediates as well as the associated infrastructure and safety equipment.
Building on this, Fraunhofer ICT is currently involved in research projects together with other Fraunhofer institutes to develop modular processes for the safe point-of-use and on-demand generation of reactive intermediates for follow up processes. This approach enables the realization of atom-efficient one-step syntheses and thus significant shortening of complex synthesis routes and drastic reduction of waste load, for example with regard to more sustainable production of fine and specialty chemicals.
The Flow Chemistry Pavilion at ACHEMA 2022 is the ideal opportunity to meet with Fraunhofer Experts and find out more about current and future developments in continuous processing and flow chemistry. We look forward to your visit!
