Presentation of the “ReactoReQ” photoreactor developed at the Institute at Labs Expo 2026

On March 18–19, 2026, the Labs Expo 2026 trade fair for laboratory equipment and technologies took place at the Poznań Conference Centre. A group of researchers from our Institute—Prof. Dr. hab. Eng. Juan Carlos Colmenares; Dr. Marta Paszkiewicz-Gawron; and Dr. Eng. Dariusz Łomot—presented the “ReactoReQ” photoreactor.

At the Institute, a batch photoreactor—“ReactoReQ”—has been developed, featuring LED illumination and a controlled atmosphere above the reaction mixture. Its design facilitates the execution of test reactions under controlled conditions by isolating the system from external light and incorporating a housing that supports efficient heat dissipation. The LED light source introduced into the reactor ensures optimal light utilization, with the possibility of precise intensity measurement using a radiometer.

The photoreactor can be used to carry out chemical reactions in the liquid phase, in suspensions, as well as on coatings deposited on substrates in the form of plates. The latter is particularly attractive, as it enables the testing of photocatalytic coatings under well-controlled conditions.

The device simplifies work with reaction systems through tool-free assembly, while the applied connections ensure gas-tight operation.

The light source is a single light-emitting diode with a selected wavelength, which results in low electrical energy consumption. The chemical reactions that can be performed using the reactor contribute to environmental protection—for example, through the generation of hydrogen from organic waste.

One can envisage that, with the use of this photoreactor, it is possible to develop photocatalytic coatings exhibiting stable activity in air and water purification, as well as in the synthesis of valuable compounds for the chemical industry. The only energy input required is light, while avoiding the costly and energy-intensive step of separating the photocatalyst from the reaction mixture for reuse.

Moreover, the system also enables studies on the effects of, for instance, ultraviolet radiation on polymer samples maintained under controlled conditions. This makes it possible to more effectively design and program the durability of such materials.

Participation in Labs Expo 2026 provided not only an opportunity to present the capabilities of the “ReactoReQ” photoreactor to a broad audience, but also to engage directly with representatives of industry and the laboratory sector. These interactions led to the establishment of valuable contacts and the identification of potential directions for further collaboration and commercialization of the technology.

Commercial R&D initiatives like the “ReactoReQ” demonstrate that the solutions developed at the Institute have real implementation potential and address current technological and environmental challenges.

Author: Dr. Eng. Dariusz Łomot