Parallel Fixed-Bed Reactor (PFBR)

Automated Platform for Studies of Continuous Reactions

Our Parallel Fixed-Bed Reactor (PFBR) is an automated platform with parallel flow-through reactor tubes for rapid catalyst and process optimization. This flexible platform can address various vapor phase applications in chemicals and refining catalysis laboratories.

The modular PFBR provides a fully automated platform in which 16 to 48 reactions can be conducted simultaneously, complete with simple graphical user interface to control hardware. Flow uniformity is essential for the system’s operation, and a unique micro-machined flow distribution chip is used for this purpose. The system enables scientists to design experiments, execute the reactions in parallel, monitor and record process conditions, and analyze reaction products in real-time using the PFBR as one complete package.

The PFBR is engineered for reliability and flexibility, with only a single high-pressure seal and easily changed components between experiments. The software allows scientists to design and modify experiments in real time. Research teams can explore a broad range of catalysts, space velocities, temperatures, and pressures. Various analytical options exist (such as GC, GCMS, and FTIR).

Key features include:

Catalyst optimization and secondary screening in a parallel flow reactor
Comprehensive process control allows for excellent scalability of data while testing 10x more catalysts per week
Validated and utilized for gas phase chemistry up to 650 °C and 100 bar (1,500 psig)
- Hydroprocessing of light petroleum fractions
- Syngas chemistry
- Hydrogenation
- Oxidation
Automated temperature and pressure control with integrated analytics

Product specifications include:

Pressure control from ambient to 100 bar (1,500 psig)
Temperature control from ambient to 650 °C
- Reaction zone temperature: ±1 °C @ 650 °C
High flow splitting accuracy: < 1% rsd
Gas and vaporizable liquid feeds
- Up to 5 mass flow controllers
- Up to 2 liquid pumps
Modular, scalable system with connectable 16 channel reactors
Efficient heat transfer into and out of catalyst bed
Approximately 250 μL catalyst volume
Chemically inert reactor material, typically quartz