Recent Trends in the application of Portable NMR Devices
Modern NMR spectrometry equipment employs Samarium-cobalt magnet, which is remarkably resistant to demagnetization. It makes the device suitable for use in situations where there is a significant variation of temperatures, and the unpredictable variables of an industrial plant.
Previously, researchers have tried to utilize superconductors to get the magnetic strength required for a portable NMR. The cryogenic material in the semi-conductor is toxic. The device would require skilled personnel, making it expensive to maintain.
While the current devices are not perfect, they use samarium-cobalt and neodymium NMR magnet platforms, which are more affordable and convenient. These versions of the tabletop NMR, are cost-effective and can be applied in the following areas.
Pharmaceutical Analysis
In the pharmaceutical industry, the NMR spectrometer is used for two main reasons; to improve accuracy and enhance the ability to identify new compounds. With Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, you do not have to destroy the integrity of the sample you are testing.
Researchers often turn to low field NMR spectrometers for bulk samples common in pharmaceutical and industrial plants. In the preparation of supplements such as Omega 3, impurities can be identified and eliminated.
Depending on the fish oil that serves as the raw material for omega 3, it may contain ethyl ester derivatives, which are difficult for the body to absorb. Since the analytical process is non-destructive, the toxins can be identified and eliminated using a tabletop NMR without affecting the rest of the sample.
Additionally, a desktop NMR is sometimes coupled with a high field NMR equipment to provide analytical data including:
- The composition of metabolic compounds in body fluids.
- Qualitative and quantitative information on the profile of the impurities in the sample.
- An analysis of chemical reactions during drug development and production.
Reaction Monitoring
A desktop NMR is fixed under a blast shield in a laboratory to test chemical reactions. Modern devices can test a sample in about 15 seconds. The setup usually has a pump that can maintain the period to 15 seconds, while delivering a continuous flow.
A typical benchtop spectrometer will provide accurate data from chemical reactions within temperatures of 800C. The setup is still effective and is useful for improving the efficacy, yield, and safety of chemical reactions.
In food production and pharmaceuticals, chemists have to produce results within a limited time. The analytical process should isolate and remove toxins without causing significant delays in the system. In Infra-Red spectrometry, the process could take longer due to the requirements for extensive calibration.
IR systems also have low sensitivity and will end up destroying the sample. IR spectrometry does not provide connectivity within groups and is, therefore, not the best for testing chemical reactions for industrial applications.
Research and Education
Stringent regulations have forced organizations to acquire Nuclear Magnetic Resonance devices to meet pharmaceutical and food production standards. The advantage of the devices, which includes ease of use and low-cost, has made the device popular in education and research institutions.
Students can have hands-on experience using the device that is set to soon be commonplace in pharmaceutical, petroleum, and food, among other industries. In academic institutions, it facilitates the understanding of both the theory and application of chemistry and physics concepts.
Complemented by Emerging Technologies
One of the emerging trends in instrumentation is automation. Automating some chemical reactions reduces the contact between humans and toxic compounds. A tabletop NMR and appropriate software can be integrated to provide real-time results.
As a result of enhanced connectivity, the IoT (Internet of Things) can provide instant data from a remote connection. NMR has proven to work more seamlessly with new technologies, to enhance usability and availability of data.
In Conclusion
Tabletop NMR devices are inexpensive, portable, and non-destructive to samples. The devices have found a place in modern industries due to these unique characteristics. Additionally, the features of the benchtop NMR can be integrated with new emerging technologies. To learn more about portable Nuclear Magnetic Resonance equipment, visit our website today.