Acquisition of Uniqsis Ltd by Asynt Ltd
Monday, September 2, 2024
A Fresh Outlook in Chemistry Technologies
Flow Chemistry specialist, Uniqsis, has been acquired by long-term trading partner - Asynt Ltd. The business deal, completed on 31st August 2024, includes the transfer of all Uniqsis staff, the company’s internationally respected intellectual property portfolio plus all equipment stock.
Uniqsis’ renowned range of specialist Flow Chemistry products and accessories (including its FlowSyn, FlowLab and FlowLab Plus ranges) will continue to be sold and supported fully by Asynt, its subsidiaries and distribution network, as well as through existing specialist Uniqsis distributors.
Steve Evans, Chief Commercial Officer of Uniqsis commented: “The combination of Asynt’s expertise in multiple chemistry methodologies and our specialist knowledge of flow chemistry will allow us to provide laboratories with a broader spectrum of complimentary problem-solving products. The new expanded Asynt team, which will include an additional experienced flow chemistry scientist, is dedicated to enhancing customer support capabilities and building upon our combined comprehensive product portfolio to support chemists worldwide.”
Since 2007, Uniqsis has specialised in the design and supply of mesoscale continuous flow chemistry systems and high-performance photochemistry tools, for a wide range of applications in chemical and pharmaceutical research.
Asynt is a global provider of world-leading technologies and services for scientific research. Developed by chemists for chemists, their laboratory equipment responds to the real demands of industry and academia worldwide, providing solutions from benchtop to kilo lab scale and beyond. Asynt’s product portfolio includes Flow Chemistry apparatus, Photochemistry systems, Synthesis Tools, Evaporators, Temperature Control Systems, oil-free DrySyn heating blocks, CondenSyn waterless air condensers, turn-key and bespoke Lab Reactors for scale-up and Pressure Reactor systems plus recirculating coolers, vacuum pumps and much more.
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Uniqsis Tube-in-plate reactors
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
Cost-effective Tube-in-plate Reactor with replaceable tubing
Glass static mixer/reactor blocks with narrow internal channels are very effective flow reactors that, attributable to their large surface area, provide very efficient heat transfer.However, they are challenging to manufacture and therefore tend to be quite expensive. In addition, many users have concerns regarding blockage or cleaning of the channels.
To address these issues, Uniqsis are pleased to introduce a new Tube-in-plate reactor concept whereby narrow-bore, replaceable perfluoropolymer tubing is embedded in channels cut into an aluminium block. To help stabilise the internal temperature but retain visibility, the tubing is covered with a glass plate.
The glass cover-plate and tubing can be easily removed and the tubing replaced - should it become blocked or contaminated.
These TIP reactors offer a direct replacement for existing 'LARGE format' GSMs that are compatible with HotChip, ColdChip, PhotoChip and Polar Bear Plus GSM reactor modules.
A single layer LARGE format TIP reactor fabricated using 1/16" has an internal volume of 9.5ml and can be used for both photochemistry and conventional thermally-mediated reactions.
In this way, Tube-in-plate Reactors provide a cost effective alternative, where static mixing is not a concern, that addresses many of the drawbacks of integrated glass GSMs.
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Polar Bear Plus GSM Photo™
Friday, April 5, 2024
Uniqsis have introduced a new photochemistry reactor module that converts the Polar Bear Plus into a high-powered photoflow reactor.It utilises the same high-power LED arrays as the PhotoChip, however, the temperature of the reactor block is now controlled by the Polar Bear as opposed to a separate recirculator.
The Polar Bear GSM Photo is compatible with both large and compact format Uniqsis Glass Static Mixer blocks.
To maximise flexibility, the LED array and associated 'spacer' are interchangeable between the Polar Bear Plus GSM and the PhotoChip.
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Solstice MAXI™ Multi-position Photoreactor
Friday, May 3, 2024
The Uniqsis SOLSTICE multi-position photoreactor is proving popular for optimising photochemical reactions on a small scale. However, we are often asked if there is a larger version suitable for intermediate scale-up. Well, now there is. The SOLSTICE MAXI accommodates 12 x 20ml septum-sealed tube reactors, as opposed to the 12 x 8ml found in the original SOLSTICE. It fits onto the same standard (135mm) magnetic stirrer and so barely takes up any more precious fume hood space. The septum-sealed reactor tubes are individually stirred and reactor temperatures can be controlled independently of the matching high-power BOREALIS LED lamp. Both the SOLSTICE MAXI and SOLSTICE are compatible with the existing BOREALIS LED lamps and power supplies.Standard available wavelengths range from 365nm to 525nm. Versatile and powerful, the SOLSTICE MAXI will help to maximise productivity in your lab!
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Accelerating Photoredox Decarboxylative Arylation
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
The Ni-catalysed photoredox decarboxylative arylation developed by Macmillan et al. is a powerful cross-coupling approach that enables rapid access to pharmacologically relevant structural motifs.Recent studies in the Cresswell group at the University of Bath, UK (thanks to Joey for this) have demonstrated that, in a representative Ni-catalysed cross-coupling example, the reaction rate can be significantly accelerated in the Uniqsis Solstice parallel benchtop photoreactor simply by replacing the existing 420nm Borealis LED lamp with an improved version that utilises the latest photodiodes. Both Borealis LED lamp units are compatible with the same programmable power supply and operate at a nominal 180W.The new high intensity Borealis LED lamp compliments the existing 120W and 180W versions and is compatible with both the Solstice 12-position temperature-controlled batch photoreactor and also the Borealis Flow continuous flow photoreactor.
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Solstice™ Multi-position Batch Photoreactor
Tuesday, March 28, 2023
Notwithstanding the choice of catalyst, optimisation of reaction conditions is a key requirement to effectively employ photocatalysis in synthesis.
Pragmatically, this is most conveniently achieved by performing a series of small scale reactions in parallel. The optimal conditions can then be implemented in a continuous flow reactor to achieve higher throughput.
To facilitate this work flow, Uniqsis has developed the Solstice multi-position batch photoreactor. Up to 12 small scale reactions can be performed in parallel in a compact tube-adaptor that fits on top of an existing hotplate stirrer.
Each tube is efficiently stirred and the reaction temperature can be precisely controlled by connection to an external heat exchanger, recirculator or cold water supply.
For maximum convenience, Solstice uses the same high-power LED lamp modules and power supply as the Borealis Flow photoreactor system, thereby facilitating the transition from batch to flow.
LED lamp units are available with a wide range of wavelengths (365nm, 385nm, 425nm, 440nm, 460nm, 525nm) such that the appropriate lamp unit can be selected to match the photocatalyst being used.
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Cold Chip™ Temperature Control Module for GSMs
Tuesday, September 18, 2022
Uniqsis announces the introduction of the Cold Chip temperature control module for glass static mixer/reactor 'chips' (GSMs).
The Cold Chip is a standalone module that is designed to be attached to a suitable recirculator.
The block is able to accommodate both LARGE and COMPACT format Uniqsis GSMs. and can be fitted with an external probe to enable remote temperature regulation under the direct control of the recirculator.
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Borealis Photoflow Reactor
Tuesday, May 16, 2022
In response to the widespread interest in developing photocatalysis as an emerging technology in synthetic chemistry, Uniqsis announces the release of the Borealis Flow photoreactor system for flow chemistry applications.
The narrow reactor channels associated with flow chemistry ensure efficient absorption of light and are therefore are ideally suited to photochemistry.
The high-power (180W) LED Borealis lamp modules represent a cost-effective alternative to the lmore powerful 700W PhotoSyn flow reactor system that is designed for higher throughput scale-up applications.
A wide range of wavelengths are available, with custom options available on request.
Partnering the Borealis lamp modules with a COLD COIL fitted with a new internally wound coil reactor allows flow photochemistry with precise control of reaction temperature.
The Borealis lamp modules are powered by a 'smart' power supply that in addition to remote control capabilities and automatic safety features, is able to display both reactor and lamp temperatures.
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Uniqsis Appoint US Flow Chemistry Partner
16th August 2018
Uniqsis announce the appointment of Sentinel Process Systems Inc. (Hatboro, PA) as their exclusive US partner and distributor in Flow Chemistry.
This move follows several years of business growth in the region. The appointment enables Uniqsis to now offer US customers top tier sales, support and service from a respected company with more than 60 years’ experience in the field of chemical synthesis and systems integration. From August 2018, the Sentinel team of specialists will offer fast, informed and accurate response on all matters relating to the Uniqsis range of Flow Chemistry products.
Sentinel Process Systems, Inc. has an excellent reputation in building and supplying process systems and equipment for Kilolabs and Pilot plant and has extensive knowledge of chemical synthesis. Throughout the US, Sentinel maintain a team of specialists with expertise in scale-up challenges and experience working in these environments. For further information please visit www.kilolabs.com
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Efficient Scale-up of Photochemical Synthesis of APIs
13 November 2018
The renowned Department of Chemistry at the University of Cambridge, UK has used a Uniqsis PhotoSyn™ flow photoreactor to efficiently scale-up the synthesis of four active pharmaceutical ingredients (API's) based upon a novel organic acridium-based photocatalyst.
The acridium-based organic photocatalyst, developed by the University of Cambridge, is demonstrated to be an efficient replacement of iridium-based photocatalysts used to oxidise boronic acid derivatives by a single electron radical coupling process. By eliminating the control, scale-up and safety problems associated with traditional batch photoreactors – the Uniqsis PhotoSyn™ enabled synthetic chemists at the University of Cambridge to develop a straightforward protocol that produced 81% yield and gram per hour throughput. In the described work, the researchers also used a Uniqsis Flow-UV™ inline spectrometer to conveniently monitor steady state.Using a pair of enclosed large format LED arrays to concentrate the light inwards onto a central coil reactor, the PhotoSyn™ is able to provide sufficient light to facilitate reactions in coil reactors (up to 50 ml) enabling efficient photochemical synthetic work at larger scales.
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FlowLab Plus™ Versatile Modular Flow Chemistry System
21 June 2018
Uniqsis introduces the FlowLab Plus™ for process research chemists looking for a flow chemistry system combining top performance with true operational flexibility.
FlowLab Plus™ is a versatile flow chemistry system built around the Uniqsis Binary Pump™ dual channel reagent delivery system. The system is configured to run both manual and automated flow chemistry reactions. It is the modular equivalent of the renowned Uniqsis FlowSyn™ integrated flow reactor and may be configured with any combination of up to 4 individual reactor modules.
The computer, pumps and modules are connected over a LAN using an Ethernet hub.In this way, the system can be controlled remotely by Wi-Fi, allowing the control computer to be conveniently situated outside your fume hood.
A wide variety of configurations are possible. By selecting from the HotCoil™ and HotChip™ heated reactor modules, and the Polar Bear Plus Flow™ and new Polar Bear Plus GSM™ cryogenic modules, an operating range from -40°C to 300°C is possible.
Adding Uniqsis’s powerful FlowControl II™software permits integration of the FlowLab Plus with a fraction collector, much more sophisticated reaction automation (such as automated sample loop filling), the ability to program multiple experiments and, critically, integration with the Flow-UV™ inline UV-vis spectrophotometer to monitor steady state conditions in real time.
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Flow Synthesis of Novel Nanomaterials
16 May 2018
Uniqsis reports how the Institute of Physics at the University of Tartu (Estonia) has selected a FlowSyn™ continuous flow reactor with Flow-UV™ detector to assist them in development of novel nanomaterials for use in next generation applications.
The material science research group of Dr Aile Tamm evaluated different technological approaches to synthesise nanomaterials before investing in the Uniqsis FlowSyn system.
Dr Aile Tamm said “We have investigated nanoparticles and nanocomposites with advanced magneto-electric properties. For instance, we have succeeded in manufacturing thin solid film-particle composite layers containing iron oxide, iron-erbium oxide, manganese-iron oxide and lanthanum oxide particles with average particle diameter in the range of 5-50 nm. These novel composites have demonstrated nonlinear and saturative magnetization as well as coercive hysteresis that are needed for development of electronic devices. In addition to those nanomaterials, several other types of nanoparticles are being investigated at our Institute”.
Managing Director of Uniqsis, Paul Pergande commented “We are delighted to welcome Dr Tamm’s renowned research group to the growing community of leading international material science labs using the FlowSyn for synthesising nanoparticles”. He added “The Flow-UV in-line diode array detector can be used to determine when steady state has been achieved and therefore when to start and stop collecting the reaction product. UV-Vis measurements are particularly significant for nanoparticle distribution and provide information about particle size and whether agglomeration is occurring”.
The FlowSyn™ is a compact integrated continuous flow reactor system designed for easy, safe and efficient operation. The FlowSyn™ range includes models for performing single or multiple homogeneous or heterogeneous reactions, either manually or automatically. The range of reactions that can be explored with Uniqsis’ integrated and modular flow chemistry systems grows ever wider and is exemplified by the growing number of applications published both in the academic press and in Uniqsis’s own application notes.
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PhotoSyn™ Variable Power LED Reactor for Flow Photochemistry
17 April 2018
The Uniqsis PhotoSyn™ is a new high-power LED light unit enabling scalable flow photochemistry reactions yielding from milligrams to 100’s of grams per day.
By eliminating the control, scale-up and safety problems associated with traditional batch photochemistry – the Uniqsis PhotoSyn™ enables syntheticchemists to routinely take full advantage of the many benefits offered by photochemistry.
The PhotoSyn™ uses a pair of enclosed LED arrays to concentrate the lightinwards onto a central coil reactor. Each array is composed of 260 individual 1W blue (455nm) LEDs making the unit particularly suitable for photoredox applications. These large format arrays provide sufficient light to facilitate reactions in coil reactors (up to 60 ml) allowing work at larger scale. Other LED array formats will be available shortly.
The PhotoSyn™ is compatible with both the Uniqsis Cold Coil™ standalone reactor module and the Polar Bear Plus Flow™ cryogenic flow reactor, which control the coil reactor temperature independently of the lamps. Reactions may be run from 150°C down to sub-ambient temperatures dependent upon the power output required. The variable power supply allows the power output to be adjusted from 10-100% making the unit suitable for both small scale R&D and scale up applications.
All LED lamp units from Uniqsis have independent cooling and are hermeticallysealed such that a compressed gas stream or a gentle flow of water can beapplied at higher power outputs for additional cooling.
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HotChip™ Heater Module for Flow Chemistry Glass Static Mixer Chips
08 March 2018
Uniqsis announces HotChip™ - a new standalone heater module that provides precise temperature control of flow chemistry glass static mixer (GSM) chip reactors.The Uniqsis range of chemically-resistant borosilicate glass chip reactor blocks can be used as static mixers to ensure effective mixing before a coil reactor or to perform fast exothermic experiments such as nitrations or brominations where reaction times are often less than 1 minute.Available in sizes from 270µl to 20 ml - GSM chips from Uniqsis can be used to perform reactions from -80°C to over 230°C. GSM chips up to 2 ml can be operated up to 40bar and are available in 2-channel or 3-channel configuration. Larger GSM chips of 10ml and 20 ml have a premixing channel followed by a residence domain and can operate up to 10bar. Incorporating a clear, bright LED display, HotChip™ is very easy to use as a standalone module. Simply 'push-to-set' and 'push-to-start' using the rotary controller. Alternatively, HotChip™ can be remotely controlled using a FlowSyn flow reactor system, a Binary Pump Module™ or using the powerful Uniqsis FlowControl™ II system control software. The HotChip™ insulated cover features a cut-out that allows it to be conveniently removed and refitted without the need to disconnect the fluidic connections. An enhanced cool-down option is available which utilises the low pressure compressed supply available in most laboratory fume hoods to accelerate cooling.
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Novel UV-Visible Detector for In-Line Flow Chemistry
10 March 2017
Uniqsis Ltd has introduced Flow-UV™ - an affordable in-line UV-Visible spectro-photometric detector for flow chemistry applications. Designed for use with almost any commercial flow chemistry system - the compact Flow-UV™detector (18x18x17cm) fits conveniently into even crowded fume cupboards.
Using the UV-visible absorbance data from a Flow-UV™ detector allows dispersion to be monitored in real time and enables product collection to be controlled according to the onset and decline of steady state conditions. With no moving parts the Flow-UV™ 3648 pixel CCD array detector does not require calibration or routine servicing. In contrast to conventional Deuterium UV lamps,the Xenon flash lamp source used in the Flow-UV™ has a lifetime of up to 10 years. Fibre optic waveguides connect the high pressure Flow-UV™ flow cell to the source and detector thereby permitting the flow cell to be positioned virtually anywhere in the flow path. The flow cell itself utilises a short length of PFA reactor tubing and is therefore not restricted to being located after the outlet back pressure regulator in the low pressure region of the flow path where out-gassing can be problematic.
Flow-UV™ is extremely easy-to-use. Having previously set up and saved a method, pressing a single button is all that is required to start acquisition. To assure linearity of response, Flow-UV™ offer you the ability to select up to 5 wavelengths over which to monitor a reaction thereby ensuring detector saturation is avoided. Absorbance is plotted against time using the system control software. The control software may be configured to automatically record a background spectrum at the beginning of each experiment.
To find out more about the Flow-UV™ please contact Uniqsis now on +44-845-864-7747 or info@uniqsis.comSince 2007, Uniqsis has specialised in the design and supply of mesoscale continuous flow chemistry systems for a wide range of applications in chemical and pharmaceutical research. The company’s aim is to make flow chemistry easily accessible to both novices and experienced users.
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Uniqsis Reports Significant Growth in Flow Chemistry Market
09 March 2017
Uniqsis Ltd., specialists in flow chemistry, has announced a 50% growth in sales and significant increase in trading profit for their business year ending 31st January 2017.
During the year – Uniqsis achieved strongest growth in North America and Europe with a notable increase in sales of its high performance FlowSyn integrated continuous flow reactor systems for pharmaceutical, nanomaterials and academic research applications.
Mr Paul Pergande (Managing Director) said “The introduction of our entry-level FlowLab range of modular flow reactor systems and upgrades to the existing FlowSyn product range has delivered an increase in market share over the last year”. He added “Moreover, our ethos of continuous technical innovation backed by informed responsive support has resulted in further orders from major international organisations.
Reflecting upon technical developments in 2016, Dr Mark Ladlow (Chief Scientific Officer)commented “Our ability to develop unique new products such as the Flow-UV™ in-line UV-Vis detector and offer optimised specialist FlowSyn systems has enabled us to provide customised solutions for end users in petrochemicals, flavours and fragrances. He added “Investment made possible by our success last year is enabling Uniqsis to bring several exciting new products to market in 2017”.
For further information on the expanding flow chemistry range from Uniqsis please visit www.uniqsis.com or contact the company on +44-(0)845-864-7747/ info@uniqsis.com.
Since 2007, Uniqsis has specialised in the design and supply of mesoscale continuous flow chemistry systems for a wide range of applications in chemical and pharmaceutical research. The company’s aim is to make flow chemistry easily accessible to both novices and experienced users.
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FlowLab™ a Modular system for Flow Chemistry
27 September 2016
The number and variety of applications for continuous flow chemistry have continued to proliferate, requiring flow systems to be ever more flexible and more easily customised by users.Uniqsis has responded to these requirements by developing two modular systems, the FlowLab™ and FlowLabPlus™ These easy-to-use flow chemistry systems are Ideal for research, education and training and for those wishing to try flow chemistry without the associated costs of a sophisticated fully automatic system. FlowLab™ The FlowLab system comprises 2 or 3 high pressure pump channels and two reactor stations for heated and cooled reactions in the range -40°C to 300°C. The chemically resistant twin reciprocating piston pumps offer flow rates from 0.01 to 10.00 ml/min and can operate up to 200bar. They have builtin pressure transducers and are controlled by the FlowLab software program. The HotCoil™ coil heated reactor station operates up to 300°C and can take any of the Uniqsis range of reactors from 1 to 60 ml available in PTFE, PFA, stainless steel and Hastelloy™. The Polar Bear Plus Flow™ reactor module offers state-of-the art “Scroll Compressor” cooling technology in a compact and portable package. Reactions can be controlled from -40°C to +150°C without the need for card-ice or liquid nitrogen. Optionally a static reactor/mixer chip holder can be fitted to ensure excellent mixing or for cooling fast exothermic reactions. Two and three channels chips are available as well as residence time chips up to 15 ml. The computer, pumps and HotCoil and Polar Bear Plus Flow™ are connected over a LAN using an Ethernet hub. In this way, the system can be controlled remotely by Wi-Fi, allowing the control computer to be conveniently operated outside the fume hood. The system can be further adapted using HotColumn™ which can accommodate up to six column reactors for catalysts or scavenging applications An optional Flow-UV™ in-line spectrophotometer can also be included to monitor dispersion and help to determine the optimum point at which to begin and end product collection. FlowLabPlus™ FlowLabPlus is based around the versatile Binary Pump Module (BPM) reagent delivery system. Using the same chemically resistant pumping technology as the FlowLab the BPM benefits from reagent introduction from loops as well as bottles. There is on-board mixing, pressure control and 3 pressure transducers monitoring to ensure system safety at all times. Add up to 4 HotCoil or Polar Bear Plus Flow reactors to build a system capable of running both manual and automated experiments. Two BPM’s can be combined to offer a 4 channel flow system suitable for multi-stage chemistry. For optimum chemical resistance there is a choice of PTFE, stainless steel or Hastelloy flow paths and hybrid systems can be customised on request. For larger scale work the pump heads can be changed to 50 ml/min and coil reactors up 60 ml and then linked in series for larger scale. The BPM and its dedicated control software is the ‘hub’ for FlowLab Plus system. Capable of pumping up to 100 ml/min and operating at up to 200 bar, the BPM i available in a choice of three flow paths - PTFE, stainless steel and Hastelloy™- for optimum chemical compatibility. To help users configure systems for their applications, Uniqsis has included a useful interactive system builder on its website www.uniqsis.com. To find out more about modular flow reactor systems please contact Uniqsis now on +44-845-864-7747 or info@uniqsis.com
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More features for the Uniqsis FlowLab™
01 August 2016
The Uniqsis FlowLab entry-level complete flow chemistry reactor system is proving to be very popular. However, as a modular system this product offers considerable scope for customisation - a point not lost on our customers.
Therefore, in response to customer requests for 'specials', Uniqsis have upgraded the FlowLab system control software such that scientists can use up to 3 pumps and both a HotCoil and Polar Bear Plus Flow reactor module simultaneously. Ideal for those reactions that require a 3 inlet reactor chip, for example.
The additional components are auto-detected by the software and therefore can be added later as system upgrades when the need arises.
... more features, more flexibility!
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Nitration of e-Deficient Benzoic Acids under Continuous Flow Conditions
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Researchers at Newcastle University have recently described in an abstract to the forthcoming 2nd SCI/RSC Symposium on Continuous Processing and Flow Chemistry to be held at Novartis, Horsham, UK how electron deficient aromatic rings can be efficiently nitrated under continuous flow-through conditions using a Uniqsis FlowSyn fitted with modified Hastelloy flow-path components. In particular, a high yielding and reproducible synthesis of a key early stage intermediate used in the synthesis of the PARP inhibitor Rucaparib which is currently in Phase Two clinical trials for the treatment of metastatic breast and ovarian cancers with Cancer Research UK. Nitration is an extremely useful reaction in organic synthesis for the functionalisation of aromatic rings. The reaction is usually highly exothermic and involves potentially explosive nitro-intermediates and therefore presents significant risk when scaling up in batch. Conversely, under continuous flow-through conditions, nitration benefits from, low reactor volumes, rapid mixing, and very efficient heat transfer and is therefore both much easier to control and inherently safer to perform. Mixtures of concentrated sulfuric and concentrated or fuming nitric acids typically at close to ambient temperature and were used and found to be compatible with a standard FlowSyn fitted with modified Hastelloy flow-path components. To find out more about using the FlowSyn Continuous Flow Chemistry System for nitration reactions of e-rich aromatics under mild acid conditions please visit Application Note 22: Flow Nitration or contact Uniqsis now on +44-845-864-7747 / info@uniqsis.com.
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Flow Methodology for Highly Reproducible Bromination Reactions
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Uniqsis has announced an application note that describes a continuous flow methodology for electrophilicbromination that offers excellent control of both temperature and mixingusing a proprietary mixer chip, leading to a highly reproducible outcome.
Electrophilic bromination is a useful reaction in organic synthesis. However,when molecular bromine is used as the electrophile, under acidic conditions, it can be difficult to control both the exothermic addition and to prevent subsequent bis-bromination of the desired monobrominated product.
In application note 21**- the authors demonstrate that using a static mixer chip on a FlowSyn flowchemistry system to control both mixing and temperature - bromination becomes atitration and the reaction can be performed rapidly under elevatedtemperatures. The bromination could be performed in a coil reactor however the short reaction time of 30 seconds at 70°C makes it better suited to implementation in a chip. The authors suggest how the chip based bromination methodology could be straightforwardly scaled to 28g / hour by connecting a 5ml HT-PTFE coil reactor in line with the mixer chip and increasing the flow rate to 13.2 ml/min.
The Uniqsis FlowSyn™ is a compact integrated continuous flow reactor system designed for easy, safe and efficient operation. The FlowSyn™ range includes models for performing single or multiple homogeneous or heterogeneous reactions, either manually or automatically. The range of chemistries that can be explored with Uniqsis’ integrated and modular flow chemistry systems grows ever wider and is exemplified by the growing number of applications published both in the academic press and in Uniqsis’ own application notes. Typical examples of flow chemistry applications include hydrogenation, nitration,bromination, metalation, molecular rearrangements and synthesis of compounds such as dihyropyridine, indole, pyrazole, quinolinone and benzimidazole.
To find out more about using the FlowSyn Continuous Flow Chemistry System for bromination reactions please visit http://www.uniqsis.com/fcApplications.aspx#22 or contact Uniqsis now on +44-845-864-7747 / info@uniqsis.com.
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Automated Combinatorial Flow Chemistry
Thursday, May 30, 2013
TheFlowSyn Auto-LF loop filling modulefrom Uniqsis is a powerful and highly efficient module that allows chemists to perform multiple flow chemistryexperiments with multiple reagents under different sets of conditionsautomatically.
Enabling simultaneous loop filling and fraction collection this highlyversatile research tool enables chemists to harness the power of flow todeliver more compounds even faster. Incorporating a separate liquid handler andfraction collector - FlowSyn Auto-LF enables sample loop filling for the nextexperiment can take place before the current experiment has finished, therebyreducing overall reaction run times. Additionally the module has no injectionports to leak or block, and the fully integrated robust wash protocols minimisethe risk of cross-contamination. Including facility for partial filling ofloops - reaction stoichiometry can be varied in subsequent experiments andvolumetric accuracy is ensured by sampler calibration to position samplesprecisely in the loops.
The powerful PC software included with FlowSyn Auto-LF makes real-time reactionmonitoring and data logging straightforward. Data can be saved as a log filefor each experiment to give an audit trail.
The Uniqsis FlowSyn™ is a compact integrated continuous flow reactor systemdesigned for easy, safe and efficient operation. The FlowSyn™ range includesmodels for performing single or multiple homogeneous or heterogeneousreactions, either manually or automatically. The range of chemistries that canbe explored with Uniqsis’ integrated and modular flow chemistry systems growsever wider and is exemplified by the growing number of applications publishedboth in the academic press and in Uniqsis’ own application notes.
To find out more about using the FlowSyn Auto-LF please visit http://www.uniqsis.com/paProductsDetail.aspx?ID=FLW_AUTO or contact Uniqsis now on +44-845-864-7747 / info@uniqsis.com
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Product innovation drives continuous flow chemistry market
February 2013
Product innovation drives continuous flow chemistry market
Uniqsis Ltd (Cambridge, UK),specialists in continuous flow chemistry equipment has announced another strong year of international trading with particular growth in sales to organisations in the USA, France, Italy and China.
Launched in 2007 the company will celebrate five years of successful trading, based on its renowned FlowSyn™ continuous flow reactor systems, in April2013. During this period, the company has not only developed the most comprehensive range of continuous flow chemistry equipment for the widest possible range of chemistries but has also established informed support for its customers throughout international markets.
Paul Pergande, Group MD of Uniqsis, commented “The key to our company’s success has been an unwavering commitment to product development and close collaboration with end users, research establishments and specialist technology partners”. He added “Our first five years of trading as flow chemistry specialist have been both exciting and challenging. From day 1 we made it our priority to invest in new product development and to work closely with end users and specialist technology partners to help shape this dynamic new technology. Together with our partners we have worked hard to bring the widest possible range of high performance products to market as quickly as possible to meet increasingly complex and varied application needs, reaching as far as China, Japan, Australia and the USA. And the applications for continuous flow chemistry continue to grow, so we look forward to meeting the challenge of even more complex and varied chemistries in the coming years!”
At the heart of the Uniqsis product range is the FlowSyn™, a compact integrated continuous flow reactor system designed for easy, safe and efficient operation. The FlowSyn™ range includes models for performing single or multiplehomogeneous or heterogeneous reactions, either manually or automatically. The range of chemistries that can be explored with Uniqsis’ integrated and modularflow chemistry systems grows ever wider and is exemplified by the growing number of applications published both in the academic press and in Uniqsis’ own application notes. Typical examples of flow chemistry applications include hydrogenation, nitration, bromination, metalation, molecular rearrangements andsynthesis of compounds such pyridine, indole, pyrazole and benzimidazole.
Whether you are new to flow chemistry or an advanced user, Uniqsis offer a comprehensive range of models with outstanding chemical compatibility and proven reliability, complemented by a full range of accessories to help you optimise your application.
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Promoting efficient gas dependent flow reactions
January 2013
Uniqsis Ltd has announced a new Gas Addition Module for its FlowSyn continuous flowreactor range. The new module enables fast, controllable pre-saturation of liquid reagents with a wide range of gases thereby promoting efficientgas-dependent reactions in flow, such as carbonylation, hydrogenation,ozonolysis and direct synthesis of carboxylic acids.
Mixing gas and liquids in a controllable and reliable manner has always posed a particular challenge for flow chemists, in particular the prevention of undissolved gas bubbles which have an adverse effect on the control of pressure and residence time in flow chemistry. The novel pressurised tube-in-tube design of the Gas Addition Module overcomes this problem by ensuring continuous interaction between the gas and liquid at every point along its length.
The tube-in-tube design is based on semi-permeable membrane technology, whereby the semi-permeable inner tube containing the liquid (typically a solvent) is bathed by a stream of pressurised gas which is enclosed within a thick-walledimpermeable outer tube. The pressurised gas is able to cross the semi-permeablemembrane of the inner tube and dissolve into the liquid carried within. However,because of the semi-permeable nature of the inner tube material, the liquid is unable to cross in the opposite direction.
The Gas Addition Module is compatible with a wide range of reactive gases (e.g.CO, CO2, H2, ethene, ethyne, SO2) and organicsolvents (e.g. THF, Acetonitrile, Methanol, Propanol). Capable of generating a continuous gas-saturated solvent stream in typically less than 10 seconds, itenables flow chemists to carry out a wide variety of applications with minimum effort, including heterogeneous and homogeneous gas-liquid reactions such as hydrogenation, ozonolysis, carbonylation, and direct synthesis of carboxylicacids.
A particularly convenient feature of the Uniqsis Gas Addition Module is the availability of an optional Portable Gas Reservoir. This handy space-saving device is easy and safe to charge with gas from a larger reservoir and obviates the need to bring bulky pressurised gas cylinders into the immediate experimental area. The Gas Addition Module can be added in-line to any FlowSynsystem and other continuous flow reactors to provide a solvent feed streampre-saturated with gas, although it can also be used as a reactor in its own right.
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Modular Flow Reactor Systems
December 2012
Modular Flow Reactor SystemsUniqsis has announced a new portfolio of modular flow systems, based around its Binary Pump Module (BPM) and FlowSyn™ flow reactor technology to provide users with greater flexibility and broader synthesis capabilities.
Uniqsis developed the original two-channel FlowSyn™ flow reactor system as a fully integrated ‘one box’ solution to make the emerging technology of continuous flow chemistry easily accessible to anyone with an interest in exploring and exploiting this exciting field of research. This system, which handles simple homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions at the push of a button,represents an easy, hassle-free entry into continuous flow chemistry.
As users and applications have become more sophisticated, Uniqsis has developed more powerful and sophisticated FlowSyn™ systems, culminating in the FlowSyn™ Auto LF capable of executing multi-step, multi-reagent experiments completely automatically and unsupervised. Since then, the number and variety of applications for continuous flow chemistry have continued to proliferate,requiring flow systems to be ever more flexible and more easily customised by users.
Uniqsis has responded to these requirements by developing the versatile Binary Pump Module (BPM), a stand-alone two-channel high-pressure reagent delivery system which can form the basis of a modular continuous flow system.Users can add reactor modules of their choice to the BPM to create a modular system tailored to their specific application, with the BPM and its dedicated control software acting as the ‘hub’ for the system. Uniqsis supplies a widerange of reactor modules and accessories for this purpose, including column,coil and chip reactors, heating and cooling modules, fraction collectors and data collection and reporting modules. The latest module in the line-up is the Polar Bear Plus Flow reactor module which offers state-of-the art cooling technology in a compact and portable package. Delivering temperatures from-40°C to +150°C without the need for cardice or liquid nitrogen, it can operate independently or be controlled via the BPM as a standalone flow chemistry system.
Capable of pumping up to 100 ml/min and operating at up to 200 bar, the BPM is available in a choice of three flow paths - PTFE, stainless steel and Hastelloy® -for optimum chemical compatibility. To help users configure systems for their applications, Uniqsis has included a useful interactive system builder on its website www.uniqsis.com.
Paul Pergande, Managing Director of Uniqsis, comments: “It’s very exciting for us to be at the forefront of this dynamic new technology and to be able to develop our product offering in line with user requirements. When continuous flow chemistry first came into being, our goal was to make simple applications easily accessible to anyone who wanted to get to know the technology. The emphasis now is to ensure that users can exploit the technology to its full extent by giving them the tools and flexibility to develop new and exciting applications not previously attempted.”
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Performing Gas Liquid Chemistries in a Controlled Manner
January 2013
Performing Gas Liquid Chemistries in a Controlled Manner Uniqsis FlowSyn™ flow reactor system - Sygnature Discovery (Nottingham, UK), a leading provider of integrated drug discovery services to the pharmaceutical industry, has reported results demonstrating how the system allows them to perform traditionally hazardous chemistries in a controlled manner. For example, using the proprietary FlowSyn technology with a Uniqsis GAM II gas-liquid reactor, laboratory scientists at Sygnature Discovery, in conjunction with Uniqsis, have developed high pressure reaction protocols that have enabled them to reproducibly perform carbonylation chemistries under continuous flow through conditions. Dr Daniel Hamza, a senior research chemist at Sygnature Discovery commented "The option to use a gas addition module has opened up a multitude of gas-liquid reaction chemistries that we can perform using our FlowSyn system". He added "The FlowSyn is a straightforward and robust piece of kit to operate. The ability to add on new reactors to the existing set-up is of particular benefit since the latest technology can be easily incorporated into our synthetic plans". In conclusion Dr Hamza said "Flow chemistry offers many advantages over traditional batch processing methods notably better reproducibility and scalability as well as enhanced safety, particularly with hazardous reactions such as nitration and carbonylation".
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Product Innovation drives continuous flow
November 2012
Advanced Cooling for Flow Chemistry Uniqsis Ltd. the FlowSyn Polar Bear™ is a state-of-the-art chiller unit which, in combination with FlowSyn Continuous Flow Reactor, allows you to perform and control reactions down to -88°C. The FlowSyn Polar Bear™ provides faster and more efficient cooling than conventional chiller units and is ideal for pre-cooling reagents and controlling temperature in highly exothermic reactions. The system is compatible with the FlowSyn range of reactor modules and is designed to prevent ice formation so that you can clearly observe reactions as they occur. Traditionally equipment for cooling flow chemistry reactions below -70°C has been cumbersome and inconvenient, involving pressurised gas cylinders and/or heat exchangers. With its fully integrated plug-and-play design, the Polar Bear™ is both easy to install and simple to operate, as well as providing superb cooling performance. The Polar Bear™ uses advanced cooling technology without the need for solid CO2, solvents or heat transfer fluids to deliver rapid cooling down to -88°C at the simple touch of a button. The Polar Bear™ module is compatible with all Uniqsis coil reactors and mixer blocks and works in combination with and can be controlled by any FlowSyn flow reactor system. For highly exothermic reactions the Polar Bear Plus module is additionally compatible with Uniqsis proprietary mixer / reactor chip technology.
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Product Innovation drives continuous flow
October 2012
Product Innovation drives continuous flow FlowSyn™ range of integrated, flow reactor systems from Uniqsis Ltd. has been designed to handle everything from homogeneous single reactions to complex, multi-reagent reactions. A range of optional gas addition, microwave, low temperature and binary pump (4- channel) modules further enhance the operational versatility of the FlowSyn system. Flow chemistry in micro-reactors has many advantages over batch processing notably better reproducibility and scalability, improved yields and fewer problems with unstable intermediates or exothermic reactions. Developed by chemists for chemists, the Uniqsis FlowSyn system is available with the widest range of reactors (2 - 60ml) in a choice of inert materials including stainless steel, Hastelloy®, PFA, PTFE or even Copper. As a consequence the FlowSyn System is able to perform an unmatched range of chemistries. Reactions requiring the use of strong acids such as nitric acid (nitrations) and powerful organometallic bases such as butyl lithium (metallations) are now routinely possible. A unique 2- or 3-channel borosilicate glass mixer chip reactor enables the FlowSyn system to undertake high throughput applications, fast mixing dependent reactions and even highly exothermic reactions requiring temperature control.
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Interested in Gas-Liquid reactions? Sygnature Discovery Ltd are ....
11 January 2013
Performing Gas Liquid Chemistries in a Controlled Manner
Using a Uniqsis FlowSyn™ flow reactor system - Sygnature Discovery (Nottingham, UK), a leading provider of integrated drug discovery services to the pharmaceutical industry, has reported results demonstrating how the system allows them to perform traditionally hazardous chemistries in a controlled manner.
For example, using the proprietary FlowSyn technology with a Uniqsis GAM II gas-liquid reactor, laboratory scientists at Sygnature Discovery, in conjunction with Uniqsis, have developed high pressure reaction protocols that have enabled them to reproducibly perform carbonylation chemistries under continuous flow-through conditions.
Dr Daniel Hamza, a senior research chemist at Sygnature Discovery commented "The option to use a gas addition module has opened up a multitude of gas-liquid reaction chemistries that we can perform using our FlowSyn system". He added "The FlowSyn is a straightforward and robust piece of kit to operate. The ability to add on new reactors to the existing set-up is of particular benefit since the latest technology can be easily incorporated into our synthetic plans". In conclusion Dr Hamza said "Flow chemistry offers many advantages over traditional batch processing methods notably better reproducibility and scalability as well as enhanced safety, particularly with hazardous reactions such as nitration and carbonylation".
Sygnature Discovery (www.sygnaturediscovery.com) is a leading provider of integrated drug discovery services to the global pharmaceutical industry. Key areas of expertise include medicinal and synthetic chemistry, computational chemistry and bioscience (in vitro biology and screening). Sygnature’s team of over 60 industry-experienced chemists and biologists add considerable value to its clients’ drug discovery activities by undertaking complete drug discovery programmes and key elements of the drug discovery process, such as hit finding, hit-to-lead and lead optimisation.
Uniqsis specialises in the design of meso-scale continuous flow chemistry systems for a wide range of applications in chemical and pharmaceutical research. The company’s aim is to make flow chemistry easily accessible to both novices and experienced users.
For further information on the FlowSyn flow reactor system please visit www.uniqsis.com or contact Uniqsis on +44-845-864-7747 / info@uniqsis.com
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Flow Chemistry Specialist Uniqsis Introduces New Gas Addition Module for Continuous Flow Reactors
20 June 2011
Flow chemistry specialist Uniqsis Ltd is introducing a new Gas Addition Module for the Uniqsis FlowSyn and other continuous flow reactors. The new module enables fast, controllable pre-saturation of liquid reagents with a wide range of gases and so promotes efficient gas-dependent reactions in flow, such as hydrogenation, ozonolysis, carbonylation, and direct synthesis of carboxylic acids.
Mixing gas and liquids in a controllable and reliable manner has always posed a particular challenge for flow chemists, in particular the prevention of undissolved gas bubbles which have an adverse effect on the control of pressure and residence time in flow chemistry. The ingenious pressurised tube-in-tube design of the Gas Addition Module overcomes this problem by ensuring continuous interaction between the gas and liquid at every point along its length.
The tube-in-tube design is based on semi-permeable membrane technology, whereby the semi-permeable inner tube containing the liquid (typically a solvent) is bathed by a stream of pressurised gas which is enclosed within a thick-walled impermeable outer tube. The pressurised gas is able to cross the semi-permeable membrane of the inner tube and dissolve into the liquid carried within. However, because of the semi-permeable nature of the inner tube material, the liquid is unable to cross in the opposite direction. The design was developed in a collaboration between chemists in Professor Steven Ley's group at Cambridge University and is being jointly commercialised by Uniqsis and Cambridge Reactor Design.
The Gas Addition Module is compatible with a wide range of reactive gases (e.g. CO, CO2, H2, D2, ethene, ethyne, SO2) and organic solvents (e.g. THF, MeCN, MeOH, PrOH). Capable of generating a continuous gas-saturated solvent stream in typically less than 10 seconds, it enables flow chemists to carry out a wide variety of applications with minimum effort, including heterogeneous and homogeneous gas-liquid reactions such as hydrogenation, ozonolysis, carbonylation, and direct synthesis of carboxylic acids.
A particularly convenient feature of the Gas Addition Module from Uniqsis is the availability of an optional Portable Gas Reservoir. This handy space-saving device is easy and safe to charge with gas from a larger reservoir and obviates the need to bring bulky pressurised gas cylinders into the immediate experimental area.
The Gas Addition Module can be added in-line to any FlowSyn system and other continuous flow reactors to provide a solvent feed stream pre-saturated with gas, although it can also be used as a reactor in its own right. Paul Pergande, Group MD of Uniqsis, comments: “The Gas Addition Module represents a significant enhancement to the FlowSyn product range and, together with the recently launched Polar Bear chiller module, greatly extends the applications for the FlowSyn continuous flow reactors.”
The Gas Addition Module is available from Uniqsis and its international distribution network. For more information visit www.uniqsis.com, e-mail info@uniqsis.com, or call +44 (0)845 864 7747.
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Cambridge Companies Collaborate in the Launch of New Products for Flow Chemistry
May 2011
Uniqsis Ltd and Cambridge Reactor Design Ltd (CRD), both based near Cambridge, England, are collaborating in the commercialisation of an advanced cooling system for continuous flow reactors used in flow chemistry. Known as the FlowSyn Polar Bear™, the new system enables controlled mixing and cooling of reagents at temperatures down to -88°C.
The high performance Polar Bear™ chiller module was developed in conjunction with the Ley Group (Innovative Technology Centre), Cambridge, England, and is specifically intended for flow chemistry applications. Designed as a fully integrated plug-and-play module, the Polar Bear™ uses advanced cooling technology without the need for solid CO2, solvents or heat transfer fluids to deliver rapid cooling down to -88°C at the simple touch of a button. When partnered with the Uniqsis FlowSyn continuous flow reactor, it becomes the perfect tool for rapid pre-cooling of reagents and controlled mixing and cooling of reagents in highly exothermic flow chemistry reactions.
Solutions for cooling flow chemistry reactions below -70°C have historically been cumbersome and inconvenient, involving pressurised gas cylinders and/or heat exchangers. With its fully integrated plug-and-play design, the Polar Bear™ is both easy to install and simple to operate, as well as providing superb cooling performance. Comments Paul Pergande, Group MD of Uniqsis: “We are very pleased to be able to collaborate with CRD on the commercialisation of this important new product. With their expertise in product development for the chemical industry, CRD are in an excellent position to partner us in our mission to broaden the capability and applications of FlowSyn. We are already working with them on commercialising a second product which will be released in the coming weeks - a new gas module which will deliver a gas-saturated solvent input to the FlowSyn flow reactor.”
Dr Bashir Harji, founder and MD of CRD, observes: “As a company we always relish the challenge of developing solutions for difficult applications, so when Uniqsis approached us with the need for advanced cooling technology for their FlowSyn system, we were delighted to be able to work with them.”
The Polar Bear™ module is compatible with all FlowSyn coil reactors and mixer blocks and works in combination with and can be controlled by any FlowSyn system. For example, when combined with FlowSyn Auto-LF, series of combinatorial experiments, each at a different sub-ambient temperature, can automatically be performed in sequence.
The Polar Bear™ is available as a standalone chiller unit with its own control unit or integrated with FlowSyn to make up the FlowSyn Polar Bear™ system. Both options are available from Uniqsis who will be selling and supporting the FlowSyn Polar Bear™ through its offices in the UK and USA and through its international distribution network.
Founded in 2007, Uniqsis has quickly established itself as a developer and global supplier of integrated continuous flow reactors for academic and industrial research institutions engaged in chemical research. The company’s flow reactor system known as FlowSyn enables a wide range of experiments to be carried out safely and efficiently, under precisely controlled temperature and pressure. Typical applications include homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions, metalations, combinatorial experiments and library synthesis. The new Uniqsis website covering the latest FlowSyn products and news is now live at www.uniqsis.com
Cambridge Reactor Design, founded in 1989, has a long and successful track record of developing ingenious customised and off-the-shelf solutions for a wide range of applications in the chemical industry, including reactors for continuous and batch processing, robotic workstations for liquid-liquid extractions and filtration as well as systems for corrosion testing and continuous crystallisations. More information on Cambridge Reactor Design’s products and solutions can be found at www.cambridgereactordesign.com.
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Cambridge Reactor Design and Uniqsis announce joint marketing agreement
April 2011
Cambridge Reactor Design and Uniqsis are pleased to announce that they have entered into a joint marketing agreement for the Gastropod gas introduction module and the Polar Bear low temperature reactor, for flow chemistry applications.
Both items were developed in conjunction with the Ley group at University of Cambridge and extend the capability of existing equipment for chemistry in flow. The Gastropod allows efficient, controllable and reliable mixing of gas and liquid phases through semi-permeable membrane technology and is suitable for use with a wide range of reactive gases and solvents. The Polar Bear offers accurate and precise temperature control from ambient to -88°C at the touch of a button, employing novel cooling methodology, which is clean and simple.
The two products will be launched in the coming weeks. In the meantime, to find out more, visit www.uniqsis.com or www.cambridgereactordesign.com or contact your local agent.
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FlowSyn AUTO-LF™ – The automatic choice for Combinatorial Flow Chemistry
10/2010
FlowSyn AUTO-LF™ – The automatic choice for Combinatorial Flow Chemistry
Uniqsis (Cambridge, UK) has further enhanced the FlowSyn by launching an automated loop filling module (FlowSyn Auto-LF) that allows flow chemists to perform multiple experiments with multiple reagents automatically. With simultaneous loop filling and fraction collection this highly versatile research tool enables chemists to harness the power of flow to deliver more compounds even faster. Not only can this latest addition to the FlowSyn range of continuous flow reactors be used to prepare focussed combinatorial libraries in Flow, it can also perform automated experiment optimisation and reagent screening. Derek Lowe of Vertex Pharmaceuticals, USA, commented, ‘The FlowSyn Auto-LF has given us the flexibility we need to investigate new flow reactions in an automated fashion. We can then turn around and produce arrays of compounds using these chemistries, without a long learning curve.’ According to Dr Mark Ladlow, Uniqsis Chief Scientific Officer, ‘The main focus in developing this system has been to introduce a powerful and highly versatile research tool enabling the chemist to harness the power of Flow Chemistry to deliver compounds more quickly. A serious limitation of existing systems is attributed to the complexity of their user interface. Listening to potential customers we understood the need for a dedicated software interface that is both straightforward and easy to use in an open access environment, and that is what we have delivered.’ One of the main advantages of FlowSyn Auto-LF is that by using a separate liquid handler and fraction collector, sample loop filling for the next experiment can take place before the current experiment has finished, thereby reducing overall runtimes. Additionally, there are no injection ports to leak or block, and the fully integrated robust wash protocols minimise the risk of cross-contamination. Partial filling of loops is allowed so stoichiometry can be varied in subsequent experiments and volumetric accuracy is ensured by sampler calibration to position samples precisely in the loops. Data monitoring is included and the reaction progress can be monitored on the screen in real-time and saved as a log file for each experiment to give an audit trail.
A new brochure covering the latest product range can be downloaded at www.uniqsis.com/products/flowsyn-continuous-flow-reactor-1 Visit www.uniqsis.com, e-mail info@uniqsis.com, or call +44 (0)845 864 7747 for more information.
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FlowSyn™ - Your Perfect Match for Flow Chemistry
08/2010
The FlowSyn Continuous Flow Reactor from Uniqsis (Cambridge, UK) now gives chemists the freedom to choose the FlowSyn system with the appropriate flow path material best suited to their particular chemistry. Flow chemistry in micro-reactors has many advantages over batch processing – better reproducibility and scalability, improved yields and fewer problems with unstable intermediates or exothermic reactions - and the user can now choose a flow path a configuration that is most chemically compatible with the type of chemistry to be performed. A limitation of existing flow reactors is attributable to the use of PEEK components in the flow path. This material is an excellent engineering polymer but has limited compatibility with concentrated mineral and organic acids and very strong organic bases) whereas Uniqsis fit specially modified high pressure pumps that do not contain PEEK. A wider range of chemistries is now possible and the company claims to be the only flow reactor supplier offering this extensive range of chemical compatibility. Reactions requiring the use of strong acids such as nitric acid (nitrations) or powerful organometallic bases such as butyl lithium (metallations) are now routinely possible in flow chemistry. For many scientists the standard FlowSyn (PEEK and PTFE flowpath) offers a practical combination of high pressure capability and good chemical resistance. In response to customer feedback Uniqsis have recently introduced a range of models compatible with a broader range of chemistries. For the broadest chemical resistance, particularly to concentrated mineral acids, FlowSyn PTFE benefits from a flow path constructed entirely from PTFE, however this configuration can only withstand moderate pressures. cont/
Where high pressure operation is a prerequisite FlowSyn Steel has a flowpath constructed from permanently swaged 316S stainless steel tubing. This configuration affords safe operation up to 100 bar (1400psi) and chemical compatibility with strong acids such as concentrated sulphuric acid and TFA. Upon special request, Uniqsis can also offer a customised version (FlowSyn Hastelloy) where the flowpath is constructed from Hastelloy this offers the optimal combination of chemical resistance combined with high pressure capability.
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New Manifold improves performance
04/2010
The Uniqsis FlowSyn™ flow chemistry system now has an upgraded pump manifold that continuously monitors each high pressure reagent channel and alerts the user to any flow abnormalities, saving time and precious reagents by preventing experiments continuing under erroneous conditions. Reagent immiscibility, incomplete wetting of pump components or the presence of static or transient air bubbles are the usual causes of the flow irregularities that sometimes occasionally occur during a run and in most cases can be corrected by re-priming the pump. Unfortunately with most systems this usually means aborting the experiment, but with the reagent manifold used in FlowSyn the pump can be re-primed “on the fly”, so that the run can continue. Interlocks are provided so that if the error is not remedied within a specified period, the experiment is aborted. If an error condition is detected in one pump channel, the other is automatically stopped simultaneously until the problem is dealt with. New and improved automatic injection valves are now available for FlowSyn, with specially designed, highly inert rotor seals and larger diameter channels that allow sample loops to be filled more quickly and are less easily blocked. These new valves can be retro-fitted to any FlowSyn unit with electrically operated injection valves. As an added convenience, vertical syringe ports mean that syringes can be left in place during a run to make re-priming easier. The FlowSyn Continuous Flow Reactor integrates all the essential elements for continuous flow chemistry into a single, easy to use package. FlowSyn is simple to set up and operate and offers safe, unattended operation for tasks such as synthesis, reaction optimisation and scale up experiments, in quantities from milligrams to hundreds of grams.
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Uniqsis - Uninterrupted Flow Chemistry!
01/2010
The Uniqsis FlowSyn™ flow chemistry system now has an upgraded pump manifold that continuously monitors each high pressure reagent channel and alerts the user to any flow abnormalities, saving time and precious reagents by preventing experiments continuing under erroneous conditions. Reagent immiscibility, incomplete wetting of pump components or the presence of static or transient air bubbles are the usual causes of the flow irregularities that sometimes occasionally occur during a run, and in most cases can be corrected by re-priming the pump. Unfortunately with most systems this usually means aborting the experiment, but with the reagent manifold used in FlowSyn the pump can be re-primed “on the fly”, so that the run can continue.
Interlocks are provided so that if the error is not remedied within a specified period, the experiment is aborted. If an error condition is detected in one pump channel, the other is automatically stopped simultaneously until the problem is dealt with.
New and improved automatic injection valves are now available for FlowSyn, with specially designed, highly inert rotor seals and larger diameter channels that allow sample loops to be filled more quickly and are less easily blocked. These new valves can be retro-fitted to any FlowSyn unit with electrically operated injection valves. As an added convenience, vertical syringe ports mean that syringes can be left in place during a run to make re-priming easier.
The FlowSyn Continuous Flow Reactor integrates all the essential elements for continuous flow chemistry into a single, easy to use package. FlowSyn is simple to set up and operate and offers safe, unattended operation for tasks such as synthesis, reaction optimisation and scale up experiments, in quantities from milligrams to hundreds of grams.
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Sub-Ambient Flow Chemistry
03/2009
A new interchangeable reactor tray is now available for the Uniqsis FlowSyn Continuous Flow Reactor that extends the system?s working temperature range down to -40?C. The ?Cold Tray? Reactor Module was developed in response to user requests for sub-ambient capability and can be fitted retrospectively to existing FlowSyn systems in a few minutes.
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FlowSyn Multiple Experiment package
12/2008
New functionality for the Uniqsis FlowSyn continuous flow reactor allows the user to conduct multiple flow chemistry experiments in a single run - ideal for reaction optimisation, profiling or scale up.
Introduced at the recent 2nd Uniqsis Flow Chemistry Symposium in Cambridge, the optional Multiple Experiment Package integrates the FlowSyn reactor with a Gilson FC203B or FC204 fraction collector to produce a very compact, cost-effective system capable of running up to 10 sequential experiments with different reaction times, temperatures and reagent ratios. Everything, including the fraction collector, is controlled via the easy-to-use FlowSyn user interface, so no separate PC is needed. Setting up 10 experiments takes only a few minutes, as the user only has to set up one reaction completely. This is then replicated to create a series of experiments, in which individual parameters can easily be modified by the chemist using a simple spreadsheet user interface.
Two operating protocols are available. In fractionation mode, reaction products are collected in programmed fractions. In the unique optimisation mode, product is collected, during a programmable window, in a single vial. A small aliquot can also be taken during the experiment and delivered into an LCMS vial where it can be mixed with a quench reagent so that reaction progress can be measured.
FlowSyn offers several choices of reactor. The innovative FlowSyn coiled reactors (patent pending) are available with different volumes and materials ? stainless steel, PTFE or PEEK and Hastelloy? and can be used at up to 260?C and pressures up to 1000psi (~70 Bar) in complete safety. A variety of column reactors is also available, and the new FlowSyn cooling tray takes reaction temperatures down to -60?C.
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FlowSyn continuous flow reactor is making high temperature chemistry available in no time at all
06/2008
The preparation of pharmacologically important 2-amino-pyridines by direct nucleophilic displacement of unactivated 2-chloropyridine requires harsh conditions and is typically low yielding.
This situation can be resolved by the use of metal catalysed cross-coupling conditions, but this necessitates more extensive purification to subsequently remove the metal catalyst.
Alternatively, the direct uncatalysed preparation of 2?morpholinyl-pyridine, for example, may be straightforwardly achieved conversion under continuous throughput conditions by heating a mixture of morpholine and unactivated 2-chloropyridine to 250oC in NMP for only 20 min. 2-Morpholinyl-pyridine is obtained in high yield and excellent purity.
FlowSyn? is able to perform this chemistry safely and automatically, freeing up the user to concentrate on their next discovery.
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Continuous Flow Synthesis Gets Hotter
05/2008
Raising the reaction temperature achievable with the FlowSyn? Continuous Flow Reactor has considerably widened the scope of reactions that can be performed, say manufacturers Uniqsis of Cambridge. Reactions can now be carried out at up to 260?C and pressures up to 1000psi (~70 Bar).
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Turning the Tide with Flow Chemistry
04/2008
by Dr Mark Ladlow
The advent of direct microwave heating has become an established and useful methodology in the synthetic chemists toolbox. An alternative approach, however, utilises continuous processing. ?Flow chemistry? has the potential to deliver advantages on two levels. Firstly, the need to reduce cost is increasingly attracting the attention of the drug discovery community. In particular, the adoption of continuous flow processes presents an opportunity to reduce cycle times and impact the whole of the drug discovery process from early stage R&D to the eventual successful production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
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Flow Chemistry Company Moves Ahead
01/2008
Significant developments are reported by Uniqsis, the Cambridge-based joint venture company formed in January 2007 to develop a new concept in flow chemistry, leading to the launch of the FlowSyn? Continuous Flow Reactor at the end of last year.
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Companies unite to deliver product within year!
01/2008
Two Cambridge companies have forged an alliance to overcome the fuzziness of the front end of innovation, resulting in the rapid formation of an entirely new product, from concept to manufacture in less than one year...
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Easier Optimisation and Scale-Up with new Flow Reactor
11/2007
Easier scale-up without re-optimisation using a new micro-reactor is described in a new Applications Note from Uniqsis Ltd of Cambridge...
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Uniqsis New High Performance Flow Reactor
11/2007
A novel new micro-reactor, now available for the FlowSyn? reaction system recently launched by Uniqsis Ltd of Cambridge, is claimed to offer major improvements in reproducibility and performance compared with conventional flow reactor designs.
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New Continuous Flow Reactor launched
11/2007
Uniqsis Ltd of Cambridge have 'Accessible Flow Chemistry' as their maxim, and the new FlowSyn? Continuous Flow Reactor has clearly been developed with this in mind.
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Microreaction System Nears Launch
08/2007
Cambridge UK: Uniqsis Ltd, the Cambridge-based company formed in January 2007 to develop a new concept in microreaction flow chemistry has announced major progress towards launching FlowSyn? later in the year.
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New Company Focuses on Flow Chemistry
05/2007
Two well known Cambridge-based science companies have joined forces to develop a new concept in flow chemistry aimed at bringing this promising synthesis technique within the reach of every laboratory.
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