Justus Werkmeister - Instrumental Analytics

In our Instrumental Analytics team we contribute to the research and further development of the institute and support the Molecular Catalysis department of Prof. Dr. Walter Leitner and his group leaders Dr. Alexis Bordet (Multifunctional Catalytic Systems), Dr. Nicolas Kaeffer (Metal Organic Electrocatalysis) and Dr. Andreas Vorholt (Multiphase Catalysis), but also all other departments and groups of the MPI CEC.

Our main focus consists in the identification and characterization of molecules using instrumental analytical measurement methods such as mass spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.

Gas chromatography and high pressure liquid chromatography are used to analyze and quantify the components of reaction mixtures and thus to evaluate the effectiveness of various chemical processes (e.g. catalytic experiments). This provides researchers with crucial information to improve their catalysts and adjust their process parameters.

In addition, we offer support and advice on chemical experiments and especially develop jointly suitable methods to analyze and identify molecules that can potentially be formed during various chemical processes.

In this respect, we are able to develop analytical instruments that deviate from commercial standard equipment and that are customized for specific applications and analyses. One of the challenges that we often address is the direct analysis (including online analysis) of samples that can be liquid, solid or even gaseous, from reactors or gastight vessels.

Overall, we offer on one hand routine analytical services, and on the other hand continuous support and development of equipment and methods to help researchers tackle analytical challenges and improve their understanding of physical and chemical processes.