Author: Inge

Categories
Equipment Services

SynBioC

Equipment

Microreactor systems

Description                                              

Different microreactors are available at our research group. We use both complete systems and self-made systems by combining one or more pumps with a tubular reactor and/or a microchip. Within our lab, flow reactions with O2, CO2, H2, and CHF3 are possible. In-line work can be done by a Zaiput liquid/liquid separator and in-line analysis by an in-line FTIR (Bruker).

Complete systems

Labtrix® Start (Chemtrix)
Internal volume: 1, 5 or 10 µl depending on the reactor chip used
Temperature range: -15°C to 195°C
Pressures up to 25 bar
Wetted materials: glass, PEEK, PTFE, Techtron

KiloFlow® (Chemtrix)
Internal volume: 13 ml
Temperature range: 10°C to 150°C
Pressures up to 20 bar
Wetted materials: glass, PEEK, ETFE, perfluoroelastomer

X-CubeTM (ThalesNano)
Temperature range: 20°C to 200°C
Pressures up to 150 bar
Wetted material: stainless steel
Compatible with gases (H2, O2, …)
Compatible with catalyst cartridges (Pd/C, Raney Ni, …)

H Cube Mini (ThalesNano)
Temperature range: 20°C to 100°C
Pressure 1 bar to 100 bar
Flow rate 0.3-3 ml/min
Maximum hydrogen production rate 25-30 Nml/min
Water reservoir capacity 100 ml

Vapourtec Easy-MedChem V3
An adjustable packed bed column reactor – ambient to 150°C
A tube reactor assembly – ambient to 150°C
User interface with manual control software
3 V-3 pumps

Africa (Syrris)
Fully automated, flexible and easy-to-use microreactor system
Wide temperature range
Reagent pump module with flow rate range of 2.5-2500 µl/min

Pumps

ReaXus-Model 6010R (Teledyne ISCO)
High performance reciprocating peristaltic pump
Accurate flow rate control up to 10 ml/min
Pressure capability up to 6000 psi (414 bar)

WADose (Flusys)
Compact high-pressure dosing peristaltic pump (dual piston)
Dosing range 0.001-40 ml/min
Viscosity range up to 40 mPa.s
Pressure range atm-400 barg
Pump head material PEEK

FlowSyn Binary Pump Module (Uniqsis)
Peristaltic pump
Flow rates from 5 µl/min up to 10 ml/min
Glass static mixer + Teflon 5 ml coil reactor
10 bar BPR

Intelligent Pump AI-12 (Flom)
Peristaltic pump
Double-plunger reciprocating method
Maximum discharge pressure 5MPa
Range of flow rate setting 0.1-50 ml/min
Pressure limiter upper limit 0-10 MPa

Syringe pumps e.g. Fusion 101 (Chemyx)

Reactors

  • Glass chips: e.g. Glass static reactor 1.6 mL (Uniqsis)
  • PTFE tubing with multiple radii
  • PFA tubing with multiple radii
  • PEEK tubing with multiple radii

Bruker Avance-III 400 MHz NMR Spectrometer equipped with BRUKER 5 mm BBFO 400 MHz Z-gradient high resolution probe

Description

State-of-the-art NMR spectrometer equipped with an observe broadband high resolution probe, fitted with an actively shielded single axis Z-gradient for 5 mm sample diameters and 400 MHz standard-bore or wide-bore magnets. The inner NMR coil can be tuned to observe 19F or any nucleus in the range from 31P to 15N. The outer NMR coil is tuned for either 1H decoupling or observation. The probe is fitted with a 2H lock channel and automatic tuning and matching (ATM).

Signal/Noise

19F sensitivity  ≥250:1  (TFT sample, with 1H decoupling)

31P sensitivity  ≥140:1  (TPP sample)

13C sensitivity  ≥160:1  (ASTM sample)

15N sensitivity  ≥20:1  (90% formamide sample)

1H sensitivity  ≥250:1  (0.1% EB sample, 2ppm noise)

Pulse Widths

19F pulse width  ≤15μs  (TFT sample)

31P pulse width  ≤15μs  (TPP sample)

13C pulse width  ≤10μs  (ASTM sample)

15N pulse width  ≤18μs  (90% formamide sample)

1H pulse width  ≤15μs  (0.1% EB sample)

Lineshape

13C spinning lineshape  ≤0.2/2/4 Hz  (50%/0.55%/0.11%, ASTM)

1H spinning lineshape  ≤0.6/6/12 Hz  (50%/0.55%/0.11%, 1% CHCl3)

Z-gradient

The probe is fitted with an actively shielded single axis Z-gradient.

Maximum gradient strength is 50 gauss/cm

Variable Temperature Range

Variable temperature range is from -150°C to +150°C*

Liquid chromatography – Mass spectrometry

Agilent 1100 LC/MSD SL – Agilent 1200 LC – 1100 Series MSD VL

HPLC : UV detection by DAD

MS : ESI – single quadrupole – electron multiplier

Agilent 1100 Prep LC

HPLC : VWD detection – fraction collector

Agilent 1260 Series

HPLC : UV detection by DAD

MS: ESI – singe quadrupole – electron multiplier

ELSD: Infinity II – Evaporative Light Scattering Detector

Flash chromatography

Chemical separation technique used to purify chemical mixtures.

BUCHI Reveleris X2: Normal phase flash chromatography 

Grace Reveleris: Reversed phase flash chromatography

Shimadzu IRAffinity-1S FTIR Spectrometer

Description

Apparatus to determine IR absorbance/transmittance and to acquire IR spectra.

Thermo Scientific Genesys 180 UV-Vis Spectrometer

Description

Apparatus to determine UV-Vis absorbance/transmittance and to acquire UV-Vis spectra.

CEM Discover Microwave Synthesizer

Description

Apparatus for heating sealed pressure vessels with the power of microwave energy.

Ball Mill Retsch MM400

Description

Apparatus used for chemical synthesis. Alternative for synthesis via batch chemistry. Maximum frequency of 30 Hz.

GC-MS Agilent 8890

Description

The Agilent 8890 Plus GC system is coupled to a quadropole mass selective spectrometer 5977B MSD

Gerstel MPS2 autosampler has various introduction techniques: liquid, dynamic headspace, SPME and thermal absorption

GC-MS Agilent 6890 Plus

gcms2
Description

The Agilent 6890 Plus GC system is coupled to a quadropole mass selective spectrometer 5793 MSD

Gerstel CIS-4 PTV injector

GC-FID

Description

The Agilent 6890N GC system is coupled to a flame-ionization detector

Injector: Agilent 7683 Series 

BUCHI Melting Point M-560

Description

Apparatus to determine melting point of solid pure compounds and boiling point of pure liquids.

Harvest Right Pharmaceutical Freeze Dryer

Description

Freeze drying apparatus to remove water from chemical samples.

Parr High Pressure Reactor 4793

Description

Stainless steel high pressure reactor of 100 mL with maximum pressure of 200 bar. Used for chemical reactions with carbon dioxide gas.

Organic Elemental Analysis 2400 Series II CHNS/O Elemental Analyser

Description

One analyser with three modes of operation : CHN, CHNS and Oxygen

Advanced cumbustion design for handling virtually any type of samples

Frontal chromatography for simple , reliable and accurate measurements

Automated weight entry

Analytical detector range (element range (mgs)):

  • C: 0.001 – 3.6
  • H: 0.001 – 1.0
  • S: 0.001 – 2.0
  • O: 0.001 – 2.0
  • N: 0.001 – 6.0

Services

The SynBioC Research Group is equipped to perform several types of analyses on organic compounds:

  • NMR analyses
  • IR analyses
  • UV analyses
  • GC analyses
  • LC analyses
  • MS analyses

For more information regarding prices and technical aspects , please contact Prof C. Stevens , Prof M. D’hooghe or Prof S. Mangelinckx, Prof T. Heugebaert.

SynBioC

Categories
Equipment Service and expertise

Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Process Analytical Technology

Equipment

EquipmentSupplierApplications
RamanRxn 1 spectrometerKaiser Optical systems1. Process monitoring of (innovative) pharmaceutical production processes

2. Fast and non-destructive qualitative and quantitative off-line analysis of pharmaceutical dosage forms (solids, liquids, half solids)

3. Counterfeit analysis

4. Solid-state characterization
Raman microprobeKaiser Optical systems1. Chemical mapping of solid dosage forms: API distribution screening in solid forms, coating thickness analysis, drug migration analysis, …
FT-NIR spectrometer (Antaris II)Thermo Fisher1. Process monitoring of (innovative) pharmaceutical production processes

2. Fast and non-destructive qualitative and quantitative off-line analysis of pharmaceutical dosage forms (solids, liquids, half solids)

3. Counterfeit analysis

4. Solid-state characterization
–  Freeze dryer
–  Spray dryer
–  Fluid bed
–  Tableting
–  Hot-melt extruder
–  Continuous system (Consigma)		Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Technology
In-line Particle Probe IPP 70Parsum®1. Particle Size Analysis during processing
2. Particle Velocity measurements during processing

Service and expertise

The Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Process Analytical Technology offers various services, based on developed expertise:

  • Chemometric data-analysis
  • Collection of Raman and NIR spectra from samples
  • Testing the added value of newly developed process analyzers (sensors) in our available production processes
  • Qualitative and quantitative Raman and NIR spectroscopic analysis of pharmaceutical dosage forms: solids, half solids, liquids (non-destructive)
  • In-line Raman and NIR spectroscopic monitoring of pharmaceutical production processes
  • Raman spectroscopic mapping of pharmaceutical solid dosage forms: API distribution screening in solid forms, coating thickness analysis, drug migration analysis, …
  • In-line measurement of particle size and particle velocity in pharmaceutical processes
  • Optimization of freeze-drying processes
  • Biopharmaceutical analysis

For further information, contact Prof. Thomas De Beer.

PPAT

Categories
Infrastructure

Laboratory for chemical technology

The Pilot Steam Cracker

LCT disposes of a pilot plant unit for the thermal cracking of hydrocarbons, next to a number of bench-scale units. These experimental set-ups are used to determine the kinetics of the cracking reactions and of coke deposition in both the radiant coil and the transfer line exchanger (TLE). Fouling inhibition in reactor and TLE is also studied. Major advantage of the pilot unit is its extremely flexibility. A wide variety of hydrocarbons, ranging from gaseous feeds to waxes, can be handled. Moreover, the reactor design allows to obtain a broad range of process conditions. The pilot plant also offers the opportunity to industrial groups to test industrially important and/or new feeds, additives, coatings etc. in pilot plant experiments done by LCT personnel.

High-Throughput Intrinsic Kinetics (HTK) Reactor Systems

Two complementary high-throughput kinetics (HTK) set-ups are available, i.e. a high-throughput kinetics screening set-up (HTK-S) and high-throughput kinetics mechanistic investigation set-up (HTK-MI). They are specifically designed to achieve the goals put forward in the information-driven catalyst design methodology, i.e. catalyst screening and mechanistic investigation while providing reliable intrinsic kinetic data for microkinetic model construction. The main goal of the HTK-S set-up is the fast parallel screening of a large variety and, hence, number of catalysts. Both simple and complex reaction networks can be dealt with. This set-up corresponds to the screening step. After the screening stage, a benchmark catalyst is selected, on which an extensive experimental study is performed on HTK-MI complemented by a few additional catalysts for the catalyst descriptor determination. This is depicted as the mechanistic investigation step.

TAP Reactor System for Materials Kinetic Characterization

The Temporal Analysis of Products (TAP) Reactor System is used to characterize the reaction kinetics of chemical conversion over materials or heterogeneous catalysts. Characterizing the relationship between surface composition and kinetic properties enables the rational design of materials based on microkinetic detail from simple reaction steps. The advantage of Temporal Analysis of Products (TAP) comes from the small pulse size (approximately 1014-1016), which is several orders of magnitude smaller than the number of active sites in a typical sample. As a result, from pulse to pulse, the kinetic state of the material can be probed without inducing a significant change. Over a long series of pulses a material can be incrementally manipulated, for example from oxidized to reduced. Observing the evolution of kinetic properties from TAP data can shows how the processes such as bulk oxide transport, surface diffusion, number of active site, site blockage, reaction products and effect of the surface intermediates and products impact the reaction mechanism. This information can be used to better understand deactivation mechanisms or to distinguish why materials of similar composition and preparation perform differently at process conditions.

Emulsion polymerization set-up

Emulsion polymerization can be experimentally conducted at various reactor sizes (up to L scale) to study nanoparticle synthesis, accounting for all length and time scale. Chain length and particle size distributions can be measured upon further analysis.

Vortex reactor technology

The gas-solid vortex reactor in a static geometry (GSVR−SG) or shirt vortex reactor is a disruptive reactor concept that makes use of a rotating bed.  The unique attributes of the vortex reactor allow it to significantly improve certain processes that suffer from convective heat or mass transfer limitations between phases.  Other advantages may arise from the ability to work with different fluidization agents such as steam or hydrogen.  The high centrifugal acceleration (greater than 30 g’s) generates much higher slip velocities and more intense heat and mass transfer between phases.

Since the GSVR−SG technology is relatively new, the state of the art is still at the level of cold flow assessment analyses, experimentation and modeling, with valuable experimental studies carried out for different applications. 
The LCT has been working on further developing the reactive vortex reactor technology and has absolute freedom to operate.

LCT

Categories
Infrastructure

Industrial Catalysis and Adsorption Technology

INCAT has built up a strong expertise in applied chemical analysis within different research domains. We have a variety of analytical instruments, process instrumentation and dedicated engineering equipment.

Equipment

Analytical instruments

GPC

Application: Accurate determination of molecular weights and sizes for a wide range of polymers

Our GPC/SEC System, can determine accurate, absolute molecular weights and sizes, and can be used to analyze a wide range of polymers, regardless of molecular weight range or solvent.

HPLC

Application: Separation and quantitative determination of liquid samples with reversed phase, normal phase and anion exchange chromatography

GC-FID

Application: Separation and quantitative determination of volatile components with gas chromatography

GC-MS

Application: Separation and quantitative determination of volatile components with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry identification

UV-VIS

Application: Quantitative determination of chromophores with wavelenghts of 190-800 nm

AAS

Application: Quantitative determination of metals and minerals with atomic absorption spectroscopy with flame and graphite furnace atomisation

Solid Phase Extraction robot

Application: High-throughput automated SPE fractionation and sample cleanup

Our automated system for positive pressure solid phase extraction (SPE) maximizes throughput by processing up to four samples in parallel. It is the ideal choice for preparative fractionation, concentration and clean-up for all kind of liquid samples

Karl Fischer Analysis

Application: Quantitative determination of the water content in liquid samples

Density meter

Application: Quantitative determination of density and concentrations of liquids

Kjeldahl

Viscosity meters: Spindle and Cone-Plate measurement

Application: Viscometer dedicated for cone-plate measurements adapted for samples in limited quantities and difficult to clean. Viscosities can be measured between –50 °C and 300°C with an unlimited number of speeds between 0.3 and 1500 rpm and a torque range of 0.05 to 30 mNm.

Process and reaction engineering instrumentation

PILODIST VLE 110 system

Application: Determination of vapor pressures of pure liquids and vapour-liquid phase equilibria of mixtures

Our PILODIST VLE 110 system operates under atmospheric, vacuum or at overpressure with a charge volume of 35 mL and temperatures of up to 250°C.

Pilot-scale gas absorber

Application: Absorption of CO2 from a gaseous feedstock at atmospheric pressure

In the pilot scale gas absorption column (height of 4 m), typically a CO2 containing gaseous stream is fed in countercurrent to the liquid phase, which absorbs the CO2. The gas flow rate and its CO2- concentration can be varied, as well as the flow rate of the absorption liquid. The latter can also be cooled. Liquid samples can be taken to investigate the absorption performance and kinetic.

Pilot-scale distillation column

Application: Distillation of a water/methanol mixture at atmospheric pressure

The pilot-scale distillation column is a 6 m high packing column. The column is explosion proof and fully controlled (flow rate of the cooling water, temperature, liquid level, pressure and reflux ratio). Thermocouples measure the temperature at different locations. At these locations, also liquid samples can be taken. These measurements allow to quantify the separation efficiency of the mixture in the column. There is also an in-house built Aspen Dynamics simulation, containing the appropriate controllers to simulate of a full-scale distillation unit.

Pilot-scale Liquid liquid extractor

Application: Extraction of acetone in butyl acetate with water (and vice versa)

In the pulsated packing column (height of 3 m), the butyl acetate/acetone mixture is the dispersed phase and water is the continuous phase. The flow rates of both phases can be varied, as well as the pulsation. The interface level (at the top) is manually controlled. Samples can be taken of each phase in the collector vessels.

Eco cat reactor

Application: High throughput reactor set up to study chemical reactions and screening of catalysts

Pilot-scale high pressure reactor

Application: High Pressure 1 L stainless steel and 3 L Hastelloy C276 reactor

The pilot-scale 3 L reactor is equipped with a catalyst basket and a diptube for sampling and is used for upscaling of (heterogeneously catalyzed) reactions.

Muffle ovens

High Temperature Tube Furnaces

Application: Carbonization of adsorbents

Bench-scale batch reactor (thermostatically controlled) and column setups (atmospheric pressure)

Orbital shakers

INCAT

Categories
Service and expertise

Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry

Chemical Analysis and Synthesis

The Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry also provides several services in terms of chemical analysis and chemical synthesis.

For more specific information or questions you can contact the different research groups or for more general information you can contact the reception.

Valorisation

For more information about industrial collaborations between research groups dealing with chemistry and companies that are looking for chemical expertise you can contact Chemtech.

Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry

Categories
Uncategorized

Centre of Sustainable Chemistry

Reaction and Process Design

  • COILSIM1D: simulation and optimization software for steam cracking processes
  • GCxGC analysis equipment for complex mixtures of feed/reaction products
  • Bench scale units for kinetic experiments
  • Temporal Analysis of Products (TAP) for puls-respons experiments
  • Two high-throughput kinetics set-ups for catalyst testing
  • Pyrolysis reactors for the thermochemical conversion of biomass
  • Microreactor equipment
  • CFD simulation tools
  • Tools for exergetic sustainability and life-cycle assessments

Industrial Biotech

  • Enzyme engineering: specialized software for protein modeling and docking (Yasara Structure)
  • Automated screening platform: high-throughput robots for colony picking and for liquid handling; microplate reader
  • Microbiology/molecular biology: PCR; electrophoresis; electroporation; laminar flow; bioreactors with shaking, T-control and data acquisition software; Bioscope Plug-flow reactor for rapid sampling experiments; Metabolic Flux Analysis Software (MFA); software for DNA and RNA analysis; …
  • Purification/DSP (downstream processing): evaporators; (continuous) centrifuges; lyophilisator; …
  • Product analysis: GC/HPLC with UV-VIS, IR, PAD, ELSD and MS detection
  • Microbial electrochemistry: rotating disc electrode for probing kinetics of anaerobic microbial metabolism; membrane electrolysis materials such as a potensiostat, custom-made Perspex plate-and-frame reactor, ion exchange membranes, iridium oxide coated titanium anodes, variety of cathode materials

Advanced Materials

  • Molecular characterization: structure elucidation with NMR, MALDI-TOF, on-line IR, GC- and LC-MS analysis, chiral HPLC, …
  • Structural characterization: determination of molecular weight and molecular weight distribution of polymers via SEC and 2D LC/SEC; microstructural and crystallographical analysis of powders and thin layers; texture analysis; …
  • Behaviour of solutions via turbidimetry, light scattering, determination of particle size, viscosimetry, …
  • Surface visualization and characterization: measurement of microscopic features and microstructures at nanoscale supported by optical microscopy, SEM, TEM, AFM, IR mapping, XRD, XPS; surface interaction via static and dynamic contact angle measurements; quartz crystal microbalance-coupled ellipsometry
  • Thermal and mechanical analysis: study of thermal behaviour via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA); study of mechanical behaviour via dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), rheology and materials testing equipment

The Pilot Steam Cracker

LCT disposes of a pilot plant unit for the thermal cracking of hydrocarbons, next to a number of bench-scale units. These experimental set-ups are used to determine the kinetics of the cracking reactions and of coke deposition in both the radiant coil and the transfer line exchanger (TLE). Fouling inhibition in reactor and TLE is also studied. Major advantage of the pilot unit is its extremely flexibility. A wide variety of hydrocarbons, ranging from gaseous feeds to waxes, can be handled. Moreover, the reactor design allows to obtain a broad range of process conditions. The pilot plant also offers the opportunity to industrial groups to test industrially important and/or new feeds, additives, coatings etc. in pilot plant experiments done by LCT personnel.

CSC
Categories
Equipment

Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy

Our lab offers services for advanced light microscopy (GLiM), nanomedicine (NanoMedicine Centre) and the standardization of enzymes (F.I.P.). 

Ghent Light Microscopy core facility

The Ghent Light Microscopy (GLiM) CORE at Ghent University is a university-wide core facility clustering expertise with both standard and specialized microscopes to support life science research located in Flanders, Belgium.

Wide-field microscopes

Overview of wide field microscopes present at the expertise centre and there unique features:

Nikon Ti widefield fluorescence microscope (inverted)

Instrument specifications

  • Filter sets (UV to red)
    • DIA/DIC ANALYSER
    • DAPI (Ex. 387/11, Em. 447/60)
    • GFP-B (Ex. 472/30, Em. 520/35)
    • TRITC (Ex. 543/22, Em. 593/40)
    • Cy5 (Ex. 628/40, Em. 692/40)
    • GFP-L (472/30, Em. 488LP)
  • Light sensitive, cooled EM-CCD camera (1000*1000 pixels)
  • Nikon colour CMOS camera
  • Incubator with temperature regulation at the microscope level and CO2 at the cell culture level
  • Fully automatic filter wheels, objectives, XY-Stage, light source, …
  • Perfect Focus System
  • Extended software for recording and visualization of multi-dimensional (X, Y, Z, Lambda, t) images

Additional filter sets (in closet, not installed):

  • BV-2A (Ex. 420/40, Em. 470LP) 
  • TRITC (Ex. 540/25, Em. 540/25) 
  • DAPI-FITC
  • YFP-BP (Ex. 500/20, Em. 535/30)
Leica DM6 B: automated upright fluorescence microscope.

Instrument specifications

  • Moterized z-focus and stage
  • Stage insert for 4 slides
  • White light LED 
  • Metal halide lamp (fluorescence)
  • Filter sets
    • DAPI(Ex. BP 360/40, DM LM400, Em. BP470/40)
    • BLUE (Ex. BP 480/40, DM 505, Em. BP527/30)
    • RHOD (Ex. BP 546/10, DM LP560, Em.  BP585/40)
    • Y5 (Ex. BP620/60, DM 660, Em.  BP700/75)
  • Objective lenses
    • HC PL FLUOTAR 20x/0.50
    • HC PL APO 63x/1.40­0.60 OIL
    • HCX PL APO 40x/1.30 OIL
    • HCX PL APO 100x/1.40­0.70 OIL
  • Black/White CCD camera with NIR mode (Leica DFC365 FX)
    • max 21 fps
    • 1392×1040 pixels
  • LAS X software
Lionheart™ FX Automated Microscope 

The lionheart FX is an automated microscope that allows brightfield, color brightfield and fluorescence widefield imaging. The microscope is optimized for automated image acquisition over time and contains an incubator for temperature control. Automated image pre-processing optimizes images for downstream analysis, from cell counting to characterization of subcellular details

  • Sampleholder
    • four 35 mm round dishes
    • multiwell plates
    • 2-position slide holder
  • Autofocus: Image based and laser based
  • Environmental control cover: For temperature control to 40 °C and “darkroom” fluorescence, incl. Humidity control chamber
  • Objectives
    • 20x Objective, Olympus Plan Apochromat, NA 0.4, WD 1.2
    • 2.5x (2.75x eff), Zeiss Plan Fluorite, NA 0.12, WD 2.5
    • High contrast brightfield kit, 4x Objective included
  • Filter cubes & LEDs
    • DAPI filter cube: Ex. 377/50 Em. 447/60 mirror 409
      365 nm LED cube
    • GFP filter cube: Ex. 469/35 Em. 525/39 mirror 497
      465 nm LED cub
    • Texas Red filter cube: Ex. 586/15 Em. 647/57 mirror 605
      590 nm LED cube
    • CY5 Filter cube: Ex. 628/40 Em. 685/40 mirror 660
      623nm LED cube
  • Software GEN5IPRIME (Gen5 Image Prime)

Nikon C2 microscope

Instrument specifications

Microscope Stand: Ti2-E Inverted Microscope

  • motorized stage
  • Perfect Focus System

Objectives

  • 20X: CFI Plan Apochromat Lambda D 20X, NA 0.8, WD 0.8, AIR (MRD70270)
  • 40X: CFI Plan Fluor 40X, NA 0.75, WD 0.66, AIR (MRH00405)
  • 40X: CFI Plan Apochromat Lambda D 40X, NA 0.95, WD 0.21 (MRD70470)
  • 60X WI: CFI Plan Apo VC 60XC WI, NA 1.2, WD 0.31-0.28 (MRD07602)
  • 60X Oil: CFI Plan Apochromat Lambda D 60X Oil, NA 1.42, WD 0.15 (MRD71670)
  • 100X oil: CFI HP Plan Apo VC 100X Oil NA 1.4, WD 0.13 (MRD01902)

Filter cubes

  • DAPI
  • FITC
  • TRITC

Camera

Ghent Light Microscopy core facility

NanoMedicine Centre

The NanoMedicine Centre provides end-to-end solutions for the formulation of promising bio-therapeutics into nanoparticles. 

Services

  • Consultation on formulation and delivery of bio-therapeutics
  • Formulation of bio-therapeutics in state-of-the art lipid nanoparticles
  • In-dept characterization of nanomedicines
NanoMedicine Centre

Center for Pharmaceutical Enzyme Standards

Our lab hosts the FIP Centre for Pharmaceutical Enzyme Standards which has a coordination function in organizing collaborative enzyme assays between academic, industrial and national pharmaceutical control laboratories and in distributing FIP enzyme standards all over the world.

Center for Pharmaceutical Enzyme Standards

Categories
Services

Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

DNA-fingerprinting

DNA analysis

The Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology performs human identification using DNA profiling techniques, mainly for the Department of Justice in Belgium. The laboratory is recognized by the Department of Justice as a forensic DNA laboratory in criminal cases and has a BELAC accreditation since September 15th, 1996.

DNA profiling can be very useful not only in forensic casework but also in paternity testing.

By combination of short tandem repeat loci (STR) in multiplex polymerase chain reactions (PCR), individuals can be identified with very high levels of certainty. Using PCR technology, profiles (and thus identification) can be obtained of very minute and old, badly stored samples.

A DNA profile can be obtained from almost any kind of biological material (e.g. blood(stains), saliva(stains), sperm(stains), skin debris, hair, biological tissues, bones, teeth, …).

In our laboratory a total of 19 STR loci can be analyzed including the 12 ESS loci (the European Set of Standard loci: D3S1358, vWA, FGA, TH01, D21S11, D8S1179, D18S51, D10S1248, D1S1656, D12S391, D2S441 and D22S1045). The remaining 7 STR loci are TPOX, D16S539, D13S317, D5S818, D7S820, SE33 and CD-4. In addition, sex determination can also be performed by analyzing the amelogenin locus on the X- and Y-chromosome. All STR loci are analyzed on an ABI3130xL and/or ABI3500xL genetic analyzer.

Besides the commercially available kits we also created 2 multiplexes of respectively 15 and 9 STR loci in our laboratory. Those 2 multiplexes have 4 STR loci in common, what gives an extra control on the obtained profiles. These multiplexes are extensions of our original multiplex described and published in 1998 in the scientific journal Electrophoresis. The great sensitivity and specificity of this multiplex (which is better than the available commercial kits) was presented on the Second European Symposium on Human Identification in June 1998 in Innsbruck (DNA typing of fingerprints on skin debris: Sensitivity of Capillary Electrophoresis in forensic applications using multiplex PCR).

In special and very urgent cases, DNA identification can be performed within 24 hours after receipt of the samples (max. 2-3 samples). The regular cases are performed in max. 1 month (in fact, in 16 calendar days on average).

A part of the analysis is automated using liquid handlers, avoiding human errors in this way. There is one liquid handler for pre-PCR set-up; a second one is used for processing post-PCR samples.

Besides autosomal STR analysis, we also perform Y-STR analysis. We created a multiplex of 8 STR loci: DYS 19, DYS385a/b, DYS 389I, DYS 389II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392 and DYS393. This way the minimal haplotype is determined. A commercial kit containing 3 extra loci (DYS437, DYS438 and DYS439) besides the 8 STR mentioned above is also used.

Our lab can also perform analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), specifically on samples where nuclear typing has failed or cannot be performed such as hair without a root.

A P.A.L.M. microdissection laser microscope is available in the laboratory. Using the laser microdissection technique, individual cells can be isolated very specifically. Sperms cells, for example, can be isolated from post coital samples. Our laboratory has already published several scientific articles on this subject in a.o. “International Journal Of Legal Medicine”.

DNA research

Besides the routine DNA typing for the Department of Justice, our lab performs research in the field of DNA analysis in order to optimize and improve the procedures. This research includes:

  • optimisation and expansion of the use of P.A.L.M. microlaser system in forensic cases
  • optimisation of DNA extraction
  • statistical interpretation of the data
Scientific articles

The publications produced by our laboratory in various scientific journals can be consulted using the following links:

Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Categories
Infrastructure

Centre for Polymer and Material Technologies – CPMT

Polymer processing machines

  • Hercules funding type 1 ‘Flaminco’: co-extrusion and lamination equipment for integration of functional components in advanced multilayer materials.
  • 3 injection machines (Engel 80T, Engel 28T, Demag 80T)
  • 2 single screw extruders 30mm Labtech
  • 1 single screw extruder 20mm Labtech
  • 1 single screw extruder 30mm Brabender
  • 3 single screw extruders19mm Brabender
  • 1 single screw extruder 19mm Haake
  • 1 single screw extruder Axson compounder
  • 2 twin screw extruders (Coperion 18D & 1 reactive extruder)
  • 1 conical twin screw compounder MAS
  • mini-compounder (Haake)
  • extrusion blow moulder Bekum
  • 2 thermoset presses
  • extrusion plate die 150mm (adjustable thickness 0,1mmà2mm)
  • extrusion blow film die diameter 150mm
  • extrusion blow moulding bottle 1L
  • thermoforming mould for packaging applications
  • injection moulds for research (ISO 527 -2, several different products,…)
  • co-extrusion 2 layer plate die 150 mm
  • collaborative equipment of other FEA research groups
  • co-extrusion plate die 500 mm (1/3/5 layers) and co-extrusion blow film die (1/2/3 layers)
  • plate & foil co-extrusion unit equipped with 3 single screw extruders
  • filament production Unit
  • different types of feeding systems (gravimetric, volumetric, powder,…)

Characterization equipment

  • tensile/flexural testing: dynamometers up to 5 kN (including heating chamber), different clamps for dumbbells, films and filaments and clip-on extensometers
  • impact testing: Charpy up to 15 J
  • peel tester
  • softening temperature: HDT-VICAT
  • rheology: MFI
  • ageing: weatherometer
  • thermal properties:DSC-TGA-STA
  • identification: FTIR
  • thermal conductivitiy: Hot Disk TPS 2500s
  • table top SEM Phenom G1
  • kyence (polarized) microscopy
  • microtome Leica RM2245
  • IR camera

Prototyping tools

We have several machines at your disposal such as:

  • 3D BioScaffolder
  • 4 FDM based & modified machines for research
  • 2 new printing head methods
  • 3D printers: Objet30Pro, Dimension SST 1200es
  • Several low cost printers: Felix, Ultimaker, Velleman Vertex,…
  • BRM lasercutter and engraver
  • Schluechl vacuum casting application
  • milling machines: RivaCNC 2400 router, ISEL ICP 4030 3 axis milling machine
  • thermoforming for shell prototypes and small series
  • manual prototyping tools and materials
  • tools & equipment for AM extrusion based wire production
  • joined equipment with project partners (SLA, SLS, SLM, FDM, EBM, …)
CPMT

Categories
News

The Nucleus: hub for innovation and impact

With the opening scheduled for 31 December 2025, The Nucleus is on its way to becoming a vibrant hub for groundbreaking R&D and sustainable innovation at Tech Lane Ghent Science Park. But is more than just a workspace—it is a community. With state-of-the-art facilities, including event spaces, catering services, and versatile meeting rooms.

As a key tenant, CESPE will occupy a significant part of the facility – an investment that underlines the ambition to position the Ghent region as a global hotspot for manufacturing innovation in the (bio)pharma sector.

This vision is made possible by the strength of the ecosystem within Tech Lane Ghent Science Park: a unique combination of academic research, industrial leadership and technological excellence. With direct connections to research institutions, e.g. VIB, imec, and international companies, e.g. J&J, Legend Biotech, Sanofi. This is the place to be for opportunity, growth, innovation and connection.

From this new base, CESPE will also continue to support talent development through the CESPE Academy, which offers a wide range of training programs.

Stay tuned as opening day approaches: The Nucleus is more than a building; it is a catalyst for the future!

Brochure The NucleusDownload

Categories
Uncategorized

Register your interest to receive updates on upcoming course(s)



    Categories
    News

    EU Biotech Campus and CESPE Launch Strategic Collaboration to Strengthen Biotech and Biopharma Training

    Ghent-Gosselies, May 27, 2025 – The EU Biotech Campus and CESPE (Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Pharmaceutical Engineering and Manufacturing) are proud to announce a new strategic partnership. This collaboration is rooted in our shared ambition to equip the biotech & biopharmaceutical work force with future-proof skills and raise awareness about the importance of talent development in the life sciences sector.

    Together, we will engage in joint communication efforts to highlight key challenges and opportunities in biotech and pharmaceutical training, and to connect industry stakeholders with relevant learning pathways.

    “This partnership with CESPE is perfectly aligned with our mission to create the most dynamic and inclusive biotech training ecosystem in Belgium and in Europe. By joining forces, we are amplifying our impact and inspiring the next generation of talent.” Sabrina Ena, CEO of the EU Biotech Campus

    “We are delighted to embark on this partnership with EU Biotech Campus. It is a powerful step towards a future where talent and innovation are central. This partnership plays a crucial role in nurturing talent and encouraging continuous innovation that reflects the spirit of Belgium’s thriving (bio)pharma ecosystem.” Christoph Portier, General Manager of CESPE

    This marks the beginning of a strategic dialogue between two institutions committed to supporting the growth of biotech and pharmaceutical ecosystems through knowledge-sharing and training.

    Stay tuned for joint initiatives that will spotlight skills development, innovation, and collaboration in life sciences.

    About EU Biotech Campus

    EU Biotech Campus is a training hub based in the Biopark in Gosselies, Charleroi (Belgium) — in the heart of the Wallonia Health Tech Valley. Opening in end 2025, the 5,500 m² facility will offer state-of-the-art spaces and programs to develop talent in the biotechnology, biopharmaceutical and health sectors. As a multi-operator and innovation-driven ecosystem, EU Biotech Campus offers a unique environment where immersive, state-of-the-art training programs meet the real-world needs of companies and learners alike. Our approach combines hands-on learning, advanced technology exposure, and interdisciplinary knowledge exchange with training programs focusing on biomanufacturing processes, digital transition, advanced therapies, soft skills, and STEM awareness, equipping participants with the future-proof competencies needed to thrive in the life sciences industry.

    For more information, visit EU Biotech Campus website. For more information, visit the EU Biotech Campus website www.biotechcampus.eu or follow us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/eubiotechcampus/

    EU Biotech Campus – May 2025

    About UGent-CESPE

    Ghent University (UGent) is a top 100 university and one of the largest Belgian universities in the heart of Europe, renowned for its national and international educational, scientific and industrial cooperation. UGent TechTransfer and the platforms such as CESPE, support researchers in transferring groundbreaking science to bring innovations to the market.

    Through the multidisciplinary approach and collaboration with both academic and industrial partners, CESPE contributes to the development of innovative, sustainable and flexible production processes for the medicines of the future.

    Next to its research activities, one of the core values of CESPE is providing talent & skills for the (bio)pharmaceutical industry. CESPE wants to achieve this by bringing together the broad expertise of its diverse academic and industrial members. Over the years, each of these members built extensive knowledge, through both academic research or industrial collaborations. Therefore, CESPE actively promotes knowledge sharing across the (bio)pharmaceutical value chain. This commitment, alongside the demand from the (bio)pharmaceutical industry, led to the creation of the CESPE Academy, which offers a wide range of basic and specialized courses tailored to both industrial and academic professionals.

    At the end of this year, CESPE will relocate to ‘The Nucleus’, the new landmark building at Tech Lane Ghent Science Park. This strategic move places CESPE and the Academy at the heart of the pharmaceutical ecosystem and increases its proximity to leading research institutes and international companies. The new location provides a unique environment that fosters collaboration, encourages innovation and expands opportunities for advanced training.

    The Nucleus © evr-architecten

    For more information, visit CESPE website or follow us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/cespe

    Press contact  EU BIOTECH Campus

    Wilmot Corentin

    +32 497 32 47 58

    corentin.wilmot@biotechcampus.eu

    Press contact  CESPE

    Mark Gontsarik

    +32 9 264 81 18

    mark.gontsarik@ugent.be

    Categories
    News

    CESPE Conference 2025: Registration Now Open

    We are pleased to announce that registrations for our fourth edition of the annual CESPE conference on ‘Scaling sustainable (Bio)Pharmaceutical Manufacturing’ have been opened.

    Join us: 📅 October 22nd, 2025 | 📍 RodeBol Events, Ghent, Belgium

    Registrations and payments can be made through our Congrezzo platform.

    For registrations before September 15th 2025, the Early Bird attendance fees are €300.-/€400.- for industry (CESPE-member/non-member) and €75.-/€125.- for academic (CESPE-member/non-member) participants. The Early Bird fee for participants from governmental or non-profit organizations is €125.-.

    For the networking dinner, a supplement of €75 is charged.

    The deadline for registration is October 20th.

    Information on sponsorships and exhibition booths can be found here.

    For general questions considering the conference and CESPE, feel free to contact Dr. Christoph Portier (Christoph.Portier@UGent.be) or Dr. Mark Gontsarik (Mark.Gontsarik@UGent.be).