(Image Source: Copilot generated AI image)
Imagine a world where every molecule, no matter how complex, could be analyzed with a simple, universal detector. This isn't science fiction; it's the reality that Andrew Jones and his team at Activated Research Company (ARC) are working towards with innovations in the established fields of gas and liquid chromatography detection.
Founded in 2014 by Andrew Jones and Brad Cleveland, ARC has carved a distinctive path, marked by innovation in pursuit of solutions to complex analytical challenges. The genesis of ARC came from the challenges of analytical gas chromatography for biomass conversion products. Biomass conversion inherently results in a complicated mixture of organic compounds that are challenging to analyze with traditional gas chromatography (GC) detection. The need for accurate and efficient analysis of complex mixtures became a catalyst for their entrepreneurial journey.
Catalytic Innovations
ARC's inaugural product, the Polyarc (recently purchased by Shimadzu), was developed to solve a vexing problem in gas chromatography. Flame ionization detection (FID) is a sensitive detection method for compounds separated by GC. Unfortunately, different compounds give different magnitudes of response in the detector depending on the molecular structure. For many analyses, this can be resolved by using standards to calibrate the response to the quantity of analyte. However, for complex mixtures like those found in biomass analysis, the identity of many of the analytes is unknown, or standards are difficult to obtain.
Polyarc reactor (Image courtesy of ARC)
Working with Paul Dunhauer from the University of Minnesota on biomass conversion led to a key insight. If every molecule were first converted to methane, the subsequent response by FID detection would result in a response proportional to the number of carbon atoms in the molecule.
The initial work of ARC was to develop and incorporate proprietary catalysts into a detector for 'methanizing' compounds. Jones recalls initial work and how the prototype devices had inconsistent performance. Later innovation led to 3D-printed catalyst cells that enabled robust methanization of compounds as they flowed to the FID detector. This detector system became the Polyarc—the first and flagship product of ARC.
As ARC began to get the Polyarc into the hands of customers, they began to learn more about the market requirements of users. Many users were interested in detecting carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide with the FID. However, neither compound can be detected by pure FID. Instead, the compounds have to be converted to methane with a methanizer, typically via a nickel catalyst. As users began employing Polyarc, they realized it was a much better methanizer for carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide than their traditional tools. Hearing from user feedback, ARC developed the Jetanizer, which was optimized for carbon monoxide/dioxide detection using their proprietary catalyst systems.
In February 2024, Shimadzu recognized the advantages of the Polyarc and Jetanizer detectors and purchased the technology from ARC to sell with their GC systems.
Polyarc system (Image courtesy of ARC)
Breaking into the Field
Despite the recent commercial success, ARCs journey to recognition was not a foregone conclusion. In the beginning, it was challenging for ARC to break into the GC market with many established players. The industry's inherent conservatism and the long sales cycles presented formidable barriers to establishing a market footprint.
Ultimately, ARC found that playing the long game helped them to garner the desired success. A few things helped them succeed in the competitive landscape. ARC focused on their core technology and listened to customers; this led to the development of the Jetanizer. The evolving innovation showcased the company's ability to iterate and improve upon its technology while addressing specific customer requirements. They also continuously sought for partners at small and large companies to continue to make an imprint in the field.
The Future of Detection
For some startups, the purchase of a core technology could lead the company to declare success and formally 'exit.' However, for ARC, the innovation journey is not yet over. They've recently been working on the next innovative idea which is to apply the universality of the Polyarc FID system to liquid chromatography (LC).
With the inventive spirit present at ARC, Jones and colleagues have found ways to take liquid chromatography eluent and remove mobile phase to create FID-ready detection of analytes from LC. This new innovation is still in the research and development phase, but has the potential to redefine how complex samples are analyzed by LC. Referred to as the Solvere, this detector has the potential to improve the sensitivity and linearity of LC universal detectors.
Like with GC, breaking into the established LC detection arena will require continued perseverance and patience. Beyond technological advancements, ARC recognizes the importance of fostering a collaborative ecosystem within the analytical community. Building relationships with early adopters, academic institutions, and industry partners will be key for making a successful impact in the future.
ARC's journey highlights the importance of tenacity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of customer needs in driving innovation. By focusing on solving real-world problems and building strong relationships, the company has positioned itself as a catalytic leader for change in the analytical sciences. As ARC continues to evolve, its commitment to pushing the boundaries of analytical chemistry will continue to influence the future of the industry.
To learn more about ARC visit their website at https://www.activatedresearch.com/