Flow vs. Batch

Chemistry performed in a flow reactor can be used as a rapid screening tool to improve traditional batch chemistry.

Reactions performed in round-bottomed flasks (for example) are difficult and time-consuming to optimise. AFRICA offers a new  way to optimise, by allowing many different reactions to be tested rapidly with very little reagent consumption.

We call the approach BFB – Batch to Flow to Batch optimisation

Click here to see the AFRICA flow system.

Click here to see the FRX flow system.

But do batch and flow conditions relate to each other? Our validation work yields the following conclusions:

• Batch reaction time is comparable to flow reaction time under the same conditions
• Flow reaction time can be reduced very easily by pressurising the flow stream with the Pressurisation Module
• A reaction can be optimised in flow mode, and the results transferred back to batch.
  

Click here to see atlas batch chemistry

Some caveats must be noted, however:

• A batch reaction is generally subject to more variability from run to run than with flow.
• Some batch reactions cannot be run in flow (eg reactions forming solid products)
• Some flow reactions cannot be performed in batch (eg using reactive intermediates)

Batch to Flow to Batch (BFB) is a rapid and productive tool for Method development and Reaction Optimisation

For more information about this
application area please contact us   

To download application notes
please register with us.

The Dolomite Centre provides design, development and manufacture of glass microfluidic devices and systems.