Research Facilities
The Nanochem Group maintains state-of-the-art facilities for nanomaterial synthesis, characterization, and testing. Our laboratories are equipped with cutting-edge instruments that enable groundbreaking research in nanochemistry and materials science.
Synthesis Laboratories
Our lab combines expertise in inorganic and organic chemistry to develop unconventional nanomaterials. We enable precise synthesis and nanostructuring to tailor material properties. Bridging lab-scale research and industry, we are able to transition from lab-scale research to pilot-scale production without compromising material performance.
Key Features:
- Controlled atmosphere for air- and moisture-sensitive reactions
- High vacuum evaporators for solvent removal and purification
- Batch reactors for scale-up synthesis
- Ultrasonic bath and probe sonicator for dispersion and nanoparticle synthesis
- Precision analytical balances for accurate material dosing
- Centrifuges for nanoparticle separation and purification
- High-temperature tube furnaces for calcination, hydrothermal synthesis, and thermal treatments (tubular and conventional)
Major Equipments
Schlenk Lines
Dual-manifold Schlenk line system, specifically designed to carry out air- and moisture-sensitive reactions under an inert atmosphere.
Specifications:
- High-purity inert gas (argon or nitrogen) supply
- Vacuum control
Automated Batch Reactor - Atlas HD Potassium - Syrris
Automated reactor which provides full recipe control and real-time reaction monitoring and graphing for walk-away, scale-up chemistry.
Specifications:
- Volume Range: up to 2L
- Temperature Control: Operates from RT to +250 °C
- Automation: Control of temperature, stirring, and reagent dosing
- Applications: Crystallization, reaction optimization, process development, and scale-up
Lyophilizer (Freeze Dryer) - LyoQuest - 55°C - Telstar
Removes solvents by sublimation under vacuum, preserving the structure and composition of sensitive materials.
Specifications:
- -50 °C condenser temperature for effective solvent trapping
- Vacuum system for sublimation under reduced pressure
- 8 drying chambers and ports for simultaneous processing of various samples
- Compatibility with round-bottom flasks, vials, and custom containers
High-temperature Furnaces
Essential for calcination, annealing, and solid-state synthesis under controlled conditions, precise thermal treatment of materials.
Specifications:
- Maximum temperature: 1000 °C and 1700 °C
- Programmable temperature profiles for reproducible heating and cooling cycles
- Muffle and tube furnace configurations available
Ball milling - 8000M Mixer/Mill - SPEX SamplePrep
The Mixer/Mill is a high-energy ball mill that grinds up to 0.2 - 10 grams of dry, brittle samples.
Specifications:
- Programmable electronic timer up to 30 min cycles
- 0.2-10 g per vial
- Clamp movement amplitude: ~5.9 cm back-and-forth
Facility Access and Policies
Access Information
Our facilities are available to group members, collaborators, and in some cases, external users. Access is managed through our online booking system and is subject to training requirements and usage policies.
User Categories:
- Group Members: Full access after required training
- External Services: Access through service agreements or partnerships
Training and Safety
All users must complete appropriate training before accessing facilities. Training includes both general laboratory safety and equipment-specific instruction.
Training Requirements:
- General laboratory safety orientation
- Equipment-specific training sessions
- Hazardous materials handling (where applicable)
- Emergency procedures and protocols