Clariant's new process analytical tool completes successful trials

The first field trials of a Constant Flux reaction calorimeter have been carried out by Clariant Chemicals at its plant in Horsforth, UK. The tests were undertaken to assess the potential benefits of the new reactor for Clariant's r&d and manufacturing operations.

Constant Flux control (CoFLUX) is a patented technology developed by Ashe Morris of Hertfordshire. It permits stirred tank reactors of virtually any size or type to be operated as precision calorimeters. It offers a uniquely simple and versatile solution for on-line monitoring of chemical, physical and biological processes.

The system used in the Clariant trials was a 10-litre Constant Flux reaction calorimeter with a Hastelloy body. Power and enthalpy data were monitored in real time and displayed on a Eurotherm 5180v data management unit.

Clariant carried out a series of test reactions in the trial unit and used the on-line monitoring features to track progress in real time. The company was able to observe the rate of change (powder dissolution and reaction) throughout the experiments and could successfully detect the start and finish of each step.

The results were very encouraging and Jim Wilson, Clariant's r&d manager at the Horsforth site, observed that: 'an insight into the mechanics of the chemical reactions were provided due to highly responsive online metrics. Constant Flux could be utilised to optimise synthesis processes within Clariant.' He pointed to potential benefits arising from reduced cycle times and increased material efficiencies, as well as reduced energy requirements.

Further trials are now in progress with other manufacturers - including AstraZeneca - in the UK and the US. Constant Flux technology is being licensed to leading laboratory and industrial equipment manufacturers, and systems based on this concept will be available later this year.