Analytical equipment
We have a variety of analytical equipment available at the centre.
High performance liquid chromatography
High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a flexible technique that allows separation and quantification of chemical substances found within a complex mixture. For example it can be used for quantification of sugars produced during biomass processing or for the determination of valuable chemical components in process streams or feedstocks.
HPLC – involves injection of a liquid sample, containing the chemical(s) of interest, being injected onto a chromatographic column. The sample is transported through the column by the flow of inert, liquid mobile phase. The column itself contains a solid stationary phase, through which the liquid flows. The chemicals being analysed interact with stationary phase, with each chemical travelling through the column in a different times – this is known as the retention time. The analytical value of HPLC is based on the comparison of retention times.
Technical specification; the gas chromatograph at the BDC is a HP1100 series, equipped with a 100-sample autosampler, quad-pump and both diode array (DAD) and evaporating light scattering (ELSD) detectors. The DAD allows detection of many organic compounds, which can absorb ultraviolet or visible light The ELSD is suitable for detection of compounds, which do not absorb light (e.g. sugars and lipids). Electronic data capture and analysis is performed using DataApex Clarity software.
Product evaluation
Benchtop NMR analyser
The Benchtop NMR Analyser is based on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and allows for fast, accurate, reproducible and solvent-free measurement of oil, fat and moisture in oil seeds, seed cake and foodstuffs.
Gas chromatography with autosampler capabilities
Gas chromatography (GC) is a flexible technique that allows separation and quantification of chemical substances found within a complex mixture.
Gas chromatography
Gas chromatography (GC) is a flexible technique that allows separation and quantification of chemical substances found within a complex mixture.
High performance liquid chromatography
High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a flexible technique that allows separation and quantification of chemical substances found within a complex mixture.
Microbiology facilities
Our microbiology laboratory offers a range of equipment allowing users to safely handle, store and work with a variety of aerobic and anaerobic microbes, at ACDP hazard category II level.
Oxidative stability analyser
The Metrohm Rancimat helps us determine the oxidation stability of natural fats and oils. The instrument works on the principle of passing air through a test sample at an elevated temperature, causing accelerated aging of the sample.
Plant growth trials
We use plant growth trials to assess the performance of new products and processes, such as seed treatments and new bio-based fertilisers, or newly generated plant growth media incorporating bio-based materials or by-products.
Let's work together
We have worked on 1,500 bio-based projects to date
We have several ways to work with us, including business advisory programmes and self-funded commercial options. We even have the option for you to hire our state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and office space.
