Advanced metal carbonyl synthesis and hydrogenation processes under extreme conditions
- ascensusspec
- Apr 13
- 2 min read
High pressure reactor capabilities
Since 1964, the Strem Catalog has specialized in the synthesis of metal carbonyls and metal carbonyl derivatives using high‑pressure reactor technology. What began with two stainless‑steel high‑pressure reactors has evolved into a robust, scalable platform supporting both carbonylation chemistry and high‑pressure hydrogenation processes.
Today, Strem operates six high‑pressure reactors with working volumes ranging from 1 liter to 25 gallons, capable of operating at pressures up to 5,000 psig and temperatures as high as 650°F (343°C). This infrastructure enables the safe and reliable production of highly specialized organometallic compounds under demanding reaction conditions.
Engineered Safety for Extreme Conditions
Operating at elevated pressures and temperatures requires uncompromising attention to safety. From the earliest days of our high‑pressure operations, Strem developed a comprehensive safety program that now extends across all production activities.
Key safety features include:
Reinforced high‑pressure cubicles
Each reactor is housed within a five‑sided enclosure constructed of 18–24 inches of high‑strength reinforced concrete.
Emergency blowout design
The sixth wall functions as an entryway and is engineered as a controlled blowout wall during operation.
Complete operator isolation
All reactor controls are located in a separate laboratory, providing full physical separation between personnel and active reactors.
Continuous carbon monoxide monitoring
Dedicated CO air monitoring systems are installed in every cubicle to ensure hazardous atmospheres are immediately detected.
Redundant digital monitoring
Every reaction is monitored by two independent computer systems with full data retention and alarm functionality. Automatic emergency cooling is triggered if temperature or pressure parameters move outside validated tolerances.
This layered safety approach allows Strem to perform complex, high‑risk chemistries with confidence and consistency.
Metal Carbonyls Produced Under High‑Pressure Carbon Monoxide
Strem manufactures a wide range of high‑purity metal carbonyls using pressurized carbon monoxide. Featured products include:
