Revolutionizing Hydrogenation: The H-Cube Reactor

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In summary, the H-Cube is a hydrogenation reactor that can perform hydrogenations on a range of scales, from mg to 100g. It uses premade cartridges with various catalysts and can operate at temperatures from 0-100 C and pressures from 1-100 bar. The reaction progress can also be monitored. The selection of replacement cartridges include 5% Rh/C, 10% Pd/C, 5% Rhenium/C, Raney Ni, Pearlman's, Lindlar's, and PtO2. The apparatus costs around $50K-$60K and was recognized as one of the top 100 R&D inventions in 2005. It is also possible to build a similar system
  • #1
gravenewworld
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http://www.thalesnano.com/products/h-cube


Hopefully I can convince the boss to buy one of those puppies. They sound so friggin sweet

-mg to 100g scale hydrogenations
-premade cartridges w/ desired catalysts
-0-100 C temperature
-1-100 bar pressures can be used
-can monitor reaction progress of hydrogenation


I always hate disposing of things like raney nickel or other catalysts that turn pyrophoric after being exposed to hydrogen. This things sounds amazing.
 
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  • #2
Yeah, all the kids these days want to wake up on Christmas morning to find a hydrogenation reactor under the tree.

- Warren
 
  • #3
Very cool! Any idea of the replacement cartridge selection and cost?
 
  • #4
chemisttree said:
Very cool! Any idea of the replacement cartridge selection and cost?

So far the selection of catalyst catridges that I know of are
-5% Rh/C
-10% Pd/C
-5% Rhenium/C
-Raney Ni
-Pearlman's
-Lindlar's
-PtO2


Pretty good selection. The apparatus, from what I hear, costs anywhere from $50K-$60k. I'm not sure how much catridges cost. Not cheap, but it sounds like it would be worth it. Apparently it won an award for being one of the top 100 R&D inventions in the world of 2005.
 
  • #5
Looks like you could build you own with a used HPLC pump and a small hydrogen generator.
 

1. What is a hydrogenation reactor?

A hydrogenation reactor is a type of chemical reactor used to add hydrogen atoms to molecules, typically in the presence of a catalyst. This process is used in various industries, such as petroleum refining, food production, and pharmaceuticals.

2. How does a hydrogenation reactor work?

In a hydrogenation reactor, hydrogen gas is usually mixed with the substance to be hydrogenated, along with a catalyst to speed up the reaction. The mixture is then heated and pressurized to facilitate the addition of hydrogen atoms to the molecules. The reaction can be controlled to achieve the desired level of hydrogenation.

3. What are the benefits of using a hydrogenation reactor?

The use of a hydrogenation reactor allows for precise control over the addition of hydrogen atoms, resulting in a more efficient and selective reaction. It also allows for the production of a wide range of products, from food oils to pharmaceuticals, with improved properties such as increased stability and shelf life.

4. What are the safety considerations for operating a hydrogenation reactor?

Due to the potential hazards of working with high pressures and flammable gases, safety measures must be taken when operating a hydrogenation reactor. This includes proper training, regular maintenance and inspection of equipment, and following strict protocols for handling and disposing of hazardous materials.

5. Are there any environmental concerns related to hydrogenation reactors?

Hydrogenation reactions produce hydrogenated products as well as byproducts, which may have environmental impacts if not properly managed. However, the use of catalysts in hydrogenation reactors can improve the efficiency of the reaction and reduce the production of harmful byproducts. Additionally, many industries have implemented measures to capture and recycle hydrogen gas, making the process more environmentally friendly.

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