LP auto-MATE The auto-MATE is a miniature (>50ml) computer controlled multiple reactor (parallel synthesis) system designed for optimisation of batch and semi-batch chemical processes. auto-MATE is a powerful system that includes the best features associated with bench scale reactors and robotic systems. Virtually any chemistry that can also be done on the litre scale can be carried out in the auto-MATE. It is the only system where experiments can be performed under realistic plant conditions (agitation, feed etc), fully automated and controlled, using miniature reactors running independently from a single PC. auto-MATE offers you the opportunity to carry out large numbers of experiments in the shortest possible time, allowing process optimisation in days NOT months. Process conditions can be controlled and monitored simultaneously in multiple reactors at one time with independent control of all conditions (e.g. temperature, reagent feed, agitation). It is also an ideal complement to robotic units that can identify large numbers of candidate reactions, but are unable to identify key reaction parameters. auto-MATE is able rapidly to eliminate the impractical options identified by robotic systems and then assist in generating practical and viable processes. Experimental Design Made Simple: The successful application of experimental design to process development involves performing a series of experiments with precise control of key variables. • Multiple systems controlled through a single PC • Fully independent operational conditions: temperature / feed rates, etc • Automated reactor sampling options • WALKAWAY operation (24 hr throughput) • >50ml sample volume • Fully automated control of reactor conditions: feed rates / temperature / pressure / agitation • High pressure options (up to 200 bar) • Specialist construction materials: glass / stainless steel / Hasloy / PTFE Specification... Specification Complete Units: Each unit consists of a thermostatically controlled oil jacket into which a reactor is in-serted. The reactor cover, complete with stirrer, temperature probe etc, can be lowered onto the reactor and easily secured to provide a tight seal, ready for chemical addition. Each reactor includes a dedicated stirrer, thermocouple, heater, three additional ports for feeds and other probes. Each parameter, including reactor temperature, feed rate, sequence of steps (heat, cool, dose etc), are set independently using the winISO™ software. Reactors: The unique interchangeable reactor system of the auto-MATE™ allows study of the most demanding of chemistries on one unit. Glass and metal reactors simulate real plant conditions For highly reactive chemicals, such as hydrogen fluoride, PTFE construction is available. Examples of reactions studied to date include hydrogenation, nitration, and even HF chemistries. Operating Range: From vacuum pressure to 200 bar, from 30 to 100ml, between -80 and 350oC, and even reflux experiments. Sampling: In many applications, samples for analysis can be taken at the end of the experiment. Where intermediate samples are needed, the procedure can be automated by use of either stand-alone sampling unit, or else, by integrating a robot with the auto-MATE. HEL has developed proprietary techniques for both these options. Parallel Processing: auto-MATE™ is typically supplied in units of four reactors, run from the same computer. Each reactor can be at different temperatures, performing different operations, which can be started/stopped independently. Alarms and safety conditions for each reactor can individually be specified to allow for 24 hour unattended operation. Feeds: auto-MATE™ can deal with liquid feeds using a syringe, peristaltic, piston, HPLC or pump/balance combination. Gas feeds are also possible, controlled on mass flow and/or reactor pressure. Even dosing of solids is possible using a new design of screw feeder. For complex systems with large number of feeds, manifolds with automatic routing, can be used to reduce the number of pumps necessary. Temperature Control: Independent and precise, each reactor is totally autonomous. Thermal Trending and Calorimetry: Quantitative power compensation calorimetry to give additional insight into reaction progress. HPLC Integration For a complete solution, an HPLC unit can also be fully integrated. The results of the analysis can be used in real time - to define the operation of the AUTO-LAB.
