Life Cycle Assessment of Consumables Used in Automated Flash Chromatography
Supervisor: Dr Alex Loch and Dr Joseph Cameron
School: Chemistry
Industry Partner: Buchi
Description:
Flash chromatography is a widely used purification method that has not yet been comprehensively evaluated for its sustainability. Using a first-of-its-kind life cycle assessment (LCA), we are currently assessing resource use, waste generation, and opportunities to reuse and recycle key materials, including purification cartridges, media, and instrument electronics. By identifying the most resource-intensive aspects of the process, we are trying to determine practical ways to reduce environmental impact without compromising purification performance. On this exciting project you will focus on experimentally determining the reusability of flash chromatography columns and assessing the effect on performance through repeated use and collecting and summarising analytical data. Rather than creating theoretical models for different scenarios, you will help us develop strong experimental evidence to determine the limits of reusability without compromising performance. Overall, this project will provide a strong evidence base for more sustainable, lower-cost purification practices across chemical manufacturing.
