Next-Generation
Flow Synthesis
for Pharmaceuticals

Using continuous-flow chemistry to make chemical manufacturing safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.

We develop and apply modern flow technologies to transform the way active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and fine chemicals are made. By combining innovative synthetic chemistry with chemical engineering, automation, and digital process development, we bridge the gap between lab-scale discovery and robust, scalable continuous processes for industry.

What we Do

Continuous-Flow Route Development

Develop and implement continuous-flow routes for API and intermediate synthesis.

Flow Photochemistry and Electrochemistry

Use flow photochemistry and electrochemistry as greener alternatives to conventional batch methods, improving safety and selectivity.

Mechanochemistry

Apply mechanochemistry and other alternative reaction technologies to reduce solvent use and energy consumption.

Safe Handling of Potent Compounds

Intensify and automate continuous-flow processes, including scale-up and multistep flow sequences.

Green Chemistry

Embed green chemistry, process safety, and sustainable process design as guiding principles across all projects.

Areas of Application

Our application areas focus on advanced technologies for safer, more efficient, and sustainable pharmaceutical process development. By combining continuous-flow methods, innovative reaction concepts, and digital tools, we enable robust and scalable solutions for the synthesis of APIs and their intermediates.

Safer and more robust API synthesis in flow

We design continuous-flow routes for APIs and key intermediates that improve safety, reproducibility, and process control compared to batch processing. Micro- and milli-reactors with excellent heat and mass transfer enable precise temperature control, rapid mixing, and safe handling of hazardous or unstable reagents and gases – even under demanding conditions.

Flow photochemistry and electrochemistry

We develop photochemical and electrochemical transformations in flow as greener, highly controlled alternatives to conventional redox chemistry. Tailored reactor designs and integrated monitoring help us maximize efficiency and enable scalable access to transformations that are difficult or unsafe in batch.

Mechanochemistry

We apply mechanochemical processes to minimize solvent usage and improve the sustainability of chemical manufacturing. Through mechanically driven transformations (e.g. ball milling) and low- or zero-solvent conditions, we enable highly efficient and selective reactions for APIs and intermediates.

Process intensification and multistep flow sequences

We use process intensification and smart reactor design to combine multiple reaction- and work-up steps into uninterrupted multistep flow sequences. This allows direct synthesis of complex APIs and intermediates from simple starting materials with shorter cycle times.

Handling hazardous chemistries and gases

We have extensive experience in handling hazardous and unstable reagents and gases in continuous-flow environments. Monophasic and multiphasic (liquid-liquid, solid-liquid, gas-liquid, gas-liquid-solid) processes with tailored reactor- and separation concepts enable safe execution of highly challenging reactions.

PAT, automation, and digital process development

At the interface of chemistry, engineering, and digitalization, we integrate process analytical technology (PAT), automation, and data-driven optimization into our flow platforms. This enables robust control strategies, accelerated development, and efficient technology transfer.

Why partner with RCPE for Flow Synthesis?

Proven expertise across disciplines

We unite synthetic organic chemistry, chemical engineering, process analytics, simulation, plant engineering, additive manufacturing, and separation sciences in one team, with numerous publications and patents from industry collaborations.

From lab-scale innovation to industrial scale

Scalability is built into every project, so continuous API processes can move smoothly from lab development to industrial manufacturing.

Safer, more efficient, and more sustainable manufacturing

By simplifying, intensifying, and integrating processes in flow, we reduce risk and cost while improving quality control and sustainability compared to batch.

Strong industrial and academic network

Together with the University of Graz, Graz University of Technology, and our industrial partners, we develop innovative continuous processes and understand every key step - from route design to reactor and plant design.

Ready to rethink your API synthesis with continuous-flow technologies?

Contact us to explore we can help you transform challenging batch chemistries into safe, scalable, and sustainable continuous processes for API and intermediate manufacturing.

Contact

Univ.-Prof. Dr. Oliver Kappe

Scientific Director CC Flow Synthesis & Processing

Who We Are

RCPE enables pioneering solutions in pharmaceutical engineering that improve the development, production, and availability of advanced medicines.