Precision optical design, easy to set-up and align.

Perform over a wide range of temperatures, pressures, and spectral ranges.

Built for reliable, dependable operation in chemical manufacturing environments.

permits transmission measurements studies of solid samples at temperatures ranging from ambient to in excess of 500°C in a controlled environment

Deliver breakthrough research in catalyst development, alternative fuels, and sustainable processes.

Meet stringent industry standards and regulatory requirements for emissions and product quality with confidence.

Developing more efficient catalysts for hydrogen production

Guisheng Wu used Raman and mid-infrared diffuse reflection (DR) spectroscopy to study how methanol breaks down on copper oxide (CuO)-based catalysts, which is important for hydrogen production. They used Harrick’s High Temperature Reaction Chamber and the Praying Mantis™, to observe changes in the catalysts and reaction products at different temperatures. The study showed how the catalyst’s composition and treatment affect the formation of by-products like formaldehyde and carbon dioxide. Insights from such studies can help optimise the use of methanol, which can be derived from renewable resources, supporting the transition to greener energy systems and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Read Application note

CO₂ capture stability and effectiveness

This research group leverages Harrick’s DRIFTS accessory to study CO₂ capture on amine-functionalised materials for direct air capture (DAC). Their research assesses how supports like γ-Al₂O₃ and MIL-101(Cr) affect CO₂ adsorption under different temperatures and humidity. Using Harrick’s setup, they seek to optimise DAC by understanding how support structures improve CO₂ capture stability and effectiveness. Read the full article

Production of methyl lactate for sustainable chemistry

Researchers from Universidad Rey Juan Carlos and Aston University used potassium-exchanged, tin-functionalised zeolites (Sn-β and Sn-USY) to convert biomass sugars into valuable methyl lactate. The team used Harrick’s products, such as the Praying Mantis™ accessory and High-Temperature Reaction Chamber, to analyse the zeolites’ catalytic efficiency in transforming sugars through aldol reactions. Sn-β showed particularly high selectivity, making it promising for producing commercially valuable esters from complex sugar mixtures, including real hemicellulose samples. Read the full article

Catalytic process efficiency

Using Harrick instruments for desorption tests and FTIR analysis, researchers found that plasma exposure weakens the bond between CO and Pt, especially at the more reactive sites on Pt. Calculations showed this effect is due to plasma-induced electric fields and surface charging. This approach could help prevent CO buildup on catalysts and make catalytic processes more energy-efficient. Read the full article

Reduction of greenhouse gases

Using a mix of lab techniques, including X-ray diffraction, Harrick infrared spectroscopy, and catalytic testing, along with computer modelling, researchers studied transition metal carbides (VC, NbC, and TaC) to find affordable materials for capturing and converting CO₂, helping reduce greenhouse gases. They tested how these materials interact with CO₂. This research points to TMCs with surface modifications as promising options for reducing CO₂. Read the full article

Designing better catalysts for cleaner nitrogen production

Researchers studied platinum-based ammonia slip catalysts to improve emission control and reduce harmful byproducts. Using X-ray absorption and DRIFTS techniques with Harrick instruments, they analysed platinum’s surface at different temperatures to find the best conditions for producing nitrogen. They found that platinum’s surface changes with temperature: an oxygen-covered surface is less active at low temperatures, an ammonia-covered surface produces mostly nitrogen at moderate temperatures, and a high-oxidation state creates unwanted byproducts at high temperatures. Read the full article