News | March 15, 2000

Argonaut Launches Parallel Organic Synthesis System

Argonaut Launches Parallel Organic Synthesis System
Argonaut Technologies, Inc. (San Carlos, CA), has delivered its initial FirstMate parallel organic synthesis systems. The unit enables organic chemists to more quickly incorporate parallel synthesis techniques into their daily workflow.

FirstMate, says Agronaut, is the simplest way to synthesize a small series of compounds in parallel without sacrificing the flexibility and robustness of traditional benchtop chemistry.

"Although many chemists are feeling pressure to work faster, they are resistant to adopting a new technique if it might limit their synthesis options," says Argonaut concept design VP Terry Long. "We knew we had to design a simple set of modules that would deliver the productivity advantages of performing reactions in parallel, combined with both the wide range of chemistry capability and hands-on control of synthesis in traditional glassware."

FirstMate's features, says Long, will promote broader use of parallel synthesis. According to Argonaut, FirstMate:

  • Works with standard laboratory glassware. It blends comfortably into a chemist's typical workflow.

  • Requires no special training to implement its easy-to-use features.

  • Heats and cools while effectively agitating reaction mixtures in an inert environment. This supports a wide range of synthesis methods.

  • Keeps glass reaction vessels visible and individually accessible. Visual inspection reduces an intimidating aspect of working with closed reaction blocks.

  • Fits in a drawer and does not take up bench space when not in use.

    A privately held company, Argonaut Technologies provides instruments, resins, reagents, and expertise that facilitate parallel solution-phase and solid-phase organic synthesis. Its products are used for chemistry development, library synthesis, lead optimization, process development, and chemical research in laboratories worldwide.

    Last April, Argonaut formed a consortium of five pharmaceutical and agrochemical companies to help it develop a parallel synthesizer for chemical process development. The system would allow users to automatically test a range of variables, such as time or temperature, to optimize parameters for chemical process performance.

    For more information: Kara Andrews, Director of Marketing, Argonaut Technologies, Inc., 887 Industrial Rd., Suite G, San Carlos CA 94070. Phone: 650-598-1350. Fax: 650-598-1359.

    Edited by Alan S. Brown