ALBA Synchrotron
The Catalysis Lab of the ALBA Synchrotron is a user support facility specifically designed to maximize the efficiency of catalysis research, particularly for experiments conducted at ALBA's beamlines. Currently, the laboratory is under construction.
This laboratory provides academic and industrial researchers with state-of-the-art equipment and advanced workspaces that enable:
Preparation and characterization of catalytic materials and samples under strictly controlled conditions.
Optimization of critical reaction parameters (temperature, pressure, gas composition, catalyst activation, pretreatment protocols, etc.).
Testing and refinement of experimental configurations and conditions prior to their use at the beamline.
It will be equipped with a comprehensive gas system comprising dedicated and shared gas lines for a wide range of gases and mixtures (including He, N2, Ar, O2, CO2, H2, CO, NH3, N2O, NO, and various hydrocarbons), distributed through specialized gas cabinets (flammable and comburent), high-precision regulators, pressure relief valves, and delivery infrastructure optimized for safe operation under controlled conditions.
In addition, the laboratory will include key instrumentation and infrastructure such as optical tables for hosting reactors and measurement devices, a Gas Chromatograph and Mass Spectrometer for real-time operando/in situ reaction monitoring, a glovebox (with N2 gas) for controlled-atmosphere sample manipulation, and a fume hood, together with the necessary tools and consumables to ensure full operational capability from day one.
The catalysis lab will enable advanced sample characterization, parameter optimization, and high-quality offline testing before beamline experiments, significantly enhancing scientific and industrial outcomes in catalysis and sustainable energy research. In summary, the ALBA Catalysis Laboratory acts as a strategic link that enhances the scientific and industrial return of every synchrotron experiment, decisively contributing to accelerating advances in catalysis and sustainable energy processes.