Chemistry Division

Summary

Synthesis and purification of organic molecules (A)

Our division has expertise in the synthesis and purification of organic compounds, particularly organic fluorophores. The Chemistry Division can advise you on the implementation and development of synthesis as well as on molecular purification techniques.

 

1. Development and optimisation of controlled atmosphere synthesis methods

The division offers advice on the choice of synthesis method and its implementation in a controlled atmosphere (absence of water, absence of oxygen, under carbon monoxide flow, etc.) to synthesise molecules of interest in relation to the targeted applications.

2.Selection of purification techniques

After synthesis, purification is a key stage allowing the synthesised molecule of interest to be isolated, and we can help you to define the most suitable purification technique for your species from among the following common techniques :

  • Liquid chromatography :
    • Choice of the most appropriate type of column according to the species to be purified (normal phase (Silica (SiO2), Alumina (Al2O3)), reverse phase (SiOC18)).
    • Choice of the most effective solvents and gradients to optimise the separation of your compounds.
  • Fractional distillation (atmospheric pressure, vacuum).
  • Recrystallisation (hot, cold, anti-solvent, evaporation).

 

Elaboration of (nano)materials/characterisations (B)

Nanomaterials are at the heart of the research carried out at ICPEES in the fields of energy, the environment and health.

1. Nanoparticles

They present high technological potential in these three areas of activity and are defined as having at least one dimension in the nanometre range.

Our division has invaluable technical skills in the development of nanoparticles of controlled sizes. We offer advice to the Institute's teams in choosing the chemical synthesis method best suited to their specifications. 

  • Mini-emulsion or emulsion :
  • Type of emulsion (W/O or O/W).
    • Choice of components (emulsifying surfactants), concentration, addition of additives.
    • Choice of emulsification process (sonication, disperser).
  • Nanoprécipitation :
    • Choice of solvent/non-solvent, volume ratio of solvent/non-solvent.
    • Choice of process parameters (order of incorporation of ingredients, stirring speed, etc.).

We can help you set up your light scattering experiments and analyse the data for reliable interpretation of particle sizes.

2. Functionalised or non-functionalised polymer nanofibres

They are obtained by the electrospinning process and offer a wide range of applications.

The Chemistry Division is masterred in the use of the 4 electrospinning units at the ICPEES (link to Polymer Engineering Department page) and advises non-specialists by providing them with the necessary recommendations for using this process.

3. Les matériaux lamellaires de type Hydroxydes Doubles Lamellaires (HDL)

These are two-dimensional solids with a wide range of compositions and anion exchangers with the general formula [M2+1-xM3+x(OH)2n+] Yn-x/n; mH2O. They are widely used in heterogeneous catalytic, biomedical and effluent depollution applications.

The Chemistry division advises non-specialist members on :

  • Chemical composition : choice of precursor salts for the M2+/M3+ cation pair and the intercalated anionic species, M2+/M3+ molar ratio, etc.
  • Choice of synthesis method: co-precipitation, anion exchange, reconstruction, etc. 
  • Structural analysis of HDL solids by X-ray diffraction and their chemical composition.

 

Chromatographic Separation Techniques (C)

Our division specializes in chromatographic separation techniques, offering comprehensive expertise and personalized support for the development and optimization of chromatographic methods.

1. Method Development in Chromatography

  • HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)
  • GC (Gas Chromatography)
  • SEC (Size Exclusion Chromatography)

2. Column and Solvent Selection

Column and solvent selection are critical to the success of your analyses. We provide guidance on :

  • The most appropriate column types for your application (e.g., C18, C8, specific columns for reverse phase, etc.).
  • The most effective solvents and gradients to optimize the separation of your analytes.

3. Method Optimization

We offer optimization strategies to improve the sensitivity, selectivity, and speed of your chromatographic methods. Our recommendations cover :

  • Adjusting chromatographic parameters (flow rate, temperature, solvent composition, etc.).
  • Implementing advanced detection techniques (mass spectrometry, UV detection, fluorescence detection).

With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we help you achieve accurate and reliable analytical results while optimizing your processes to enhance efficiency and quality.

 

Control-Quality (D)

Confidence in measurement instruments is essential to ensure the quality of published research. As part of the quality approach in research, Instrumental Quality Assurance (IQA) plays a critical role in ensuring the reliability of measurements. Equipment metrology, an integral part of IQA, certifies the accuracy and relevance of the obtained results.

The Chemistry Division of the institute prioritizes this rigor by offering comprehensive annual inspections of measurement equipment. This includes devices such as micropipettes and laboratory weighing balances. Through these regular checks, we ensure that every instrument operates according to the highest standards, delivering reliable and reproducible results for all research conducted.

By guaranteeing instrument precision, the Chemistry Division actively contributes to scientific excellence and enhances the credibility of the institute’s publications.

Lean Management (E)

 

Continuous improvement of the work environment is essential to enhancing the efficiency of our research. Lean management, an innovative management method, addresses this need by optimizing the performance of personnel, equipment, and the work environment. The 5S method of Lean management, based on five key steps (SORT, SHINE, STANDARDIZE, SUSTAIN, and SET IN ORDER), aligns perfectly with these objectives. Initial Lean projects were launched with pilot teams, allowing the approach to be tested and validated. Building on these successful experiences, the Chemistry Division is actively committed to expanding the implementation of Lean management across all teams within the ICPEES institute.

Experimental Data Processing (F)

The Chemistry Division at ICPEES excels in experimental data processing, offering extensive expertise and mastery of the most advanced tools and methods. Below is an overview of our skills and the software we use to analyze and interpret experimental data.

1. Excel Macros

  • Task Automation: Creation of macros to automate repetitive processes, reducing processing time and minimizing human errors.
  • Data Analysis: Use of advanced functions to sort, filter, and analyze complex datasets.
  • Visualization: Generation of interactive charts and dashboards for visual interpretation of results.

2. Origin Software

  • Automation: Development of data processing methods to automate repetitive analysis processes.
  • Graph Analysis: Powerful tools for plotting graphs and analyzing experimental data.
  • Statistical Analysis: Application of statistical tests to validate results and identify significant trends.
  • Customization: Advanced options for customizing graphs and reports to meet the specific needs of research projects.

3. R Software

  • Statistical Programming: A programming language and software environment dedicated to statistics and data science.
  • Data Analysis: Advanced techniques for processing and analyzing data, including linear and nonlinear models, classical statistical tests, time-series analysis, classification, and clustering.
  • Data Visualization: Creation of sophisticated graphical visualizations to clearly and effectively illustrate results.

4. ImageJ

  • Automation: Development of scripts and macros to automate repetitive image analysis processes.
  • Image Analysis: A powerful tool for quantitative and qualitative analysis of images, including measuring dimensions and intensities.
  • Image Processing: Techniques for filtering and enhancing images to optimize visual data quality.
  • Visualization: Generation of detailed and interactive visualizations to interpret image data accurately.

By mastering these tools and techniques, the Chemistry Division at ICPEES ensures rigorous and efficient experimental data processing, delivering reliable and actionable results for all research activities.

 

Contacts :

Head of Division :
Géraldine Layrac


Division Members :
Anaïs Becker, 
Quentin Ecrement-Rebillet,
Alexandra Sutter

 

For any service requests, please download the form below and send it to : icpees-chimie[at]unistra.fr

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