Arne Vancleef Email & Phone Number

Geleen, Limburg, Nederland

Diepenbeek

Is it possible that one day reactors are able to develop chemical processes themselves? Actually, these reactors are already revolutionizing the field of flow synthesis and my objective is to develop autonomous reactors that can effectively handle flow crystallization. While this presents a significant challenge as solid particles tend to clog, interfere with the reactor's functionality and require monitoring of numerous parameters. I am confident that we can overcome these obstacles and pave the way for a new era of flow crystallization.

Diepenbeek

As a PhD researcher, my primary focus was on developing efficient flow crystallization processes for the pharmaceutical industry. Although flow crystallizers are theoretically considered the best type of continuous crystallizers, they pose practical challenges that limit their industrial viability. To address these issues, I developed a novel crystallizer that enables controlled nucleation, controlled growth, strong mixing, a narrow residence time distribution, long residence times without sedimentation, steady state operation without fouling, and continuous reactor monitoring of critical product properties.The development of this crystallizer involved the use of advanced techniques such as ultrasound-assisted nucleation, pulsatile flow, and a novel double-jacketed heat exchanger that allows for precise control over the temperature profile of the crystallizer. Additionally, an online microscope with a custom image analysis algorithm was used for continuous monitoring of the crystal properties.The outcome of my research is a highly efficient crystallizer that is capable of generating small particles with a narrow distribution, a yield higher than 95% under steady state, and the longest reported operating time for any tubular crystallizer that is not fully sonicated. Along with my primary research, I also investigated and collaborated in other areas of research during my PhD, including continuous emulsification, crystallization in loop crystallizers, continuous heterogeneous flow synthesis, and teaching organic chemistry.

Doctor Of Philosophy - Phd, Chemical Engineering Technology

Master'S Degree, Chemical Engineering Technology/Technician