For Transformation of Society through FlowMicro Synthesis
FlowFrontier Inc. aims to bring about social transformation by providing independently developed flow synthesis technologies, especially flow micro-technologies, in response to the rapidly increasing demand for flow synthesis chemistry.
Organic synthesis chemistry has synthesized and provided various substances to society. With the advancement of technology, the synthesis of highly functionalized substances to meet the sophisticated demands of society requires new molecular transformation methods. However, organic synthesis has traditionally used batch reactors, such as glass flasks, for over 100 years. In batch reactors, control of not only the micro molecular transformation reactions but also the macro “entire reaction system” is required, which is sometimes complex and difficult. While a vast number of chemical reactions have been developed over the past century, most reactors remain traditional. Batch reactors do not always fully harness the power of chemical reactions, indicating the need for research into new reaction fields in addition to new reaction developments.
We believe that flow microreactors, which are flow-type reactors with micrometer-sized channels, will replace macro batch reactors and become the mainstream of future organic chemistry. Therefore, we named our company FlowFrontier with the intent of advancing flow synthesis, the cutting-edge field of science and technology.
Social Context Surrounding Flow Synthesis Chemistry
In 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended transitioning drug synthesis from traditional batch methods to continuous production methods, including flow methods, over the next 25 years. This indicates a shift from the widely used batch production in pharmaceutical synthesis to continuous production.
In response, the practical application of flow synthesis research through industry-academia collaboration is being promoted in Japan. The Kyoto University Microchemical Production Research Consortium, which started in 2011, involves 24 companies, and the Flow Precision Synthesis Consortium (FlowST Consortium), which began in 2015, involves nearly 100 companies. This highlights the high social interest in flow synthesis.
Advantages of Introducing Flow Synthesis Technology
In addition to the general advantages of flow technology, there are benefits specific to our independently developed flow micro-technology.
Advantages Derived from General Flow Technology
-Easy scale-up
-High safety
-Space efficiency
Advantages Based on Flow Micro-Technology
-Instant homogenization of solutions through rapid mixing
-Precise control of reaction time through residence time management
-Suppression of over-reactions through efficient temperature control
For more information on flow micro-technology, please refer to Flow Micro-Synthesis.
