A Mini Photoreactor with Magnetic Stirring is a compact, benchtop laboratory instrument designed to facilitate photochemical and photocatalytic reactions with high precision and repeatability. The integration of Magnetic Stirring is a mechanical necessity for photocatalysis: it keeps solid catalysts (like TiO2, ZnO, or niobium oxides) in constant suspension, maximizing the contact between the liquid reactants, the catalyst surface, and the incident photons.

Most modern mini photoreactors follow a modular, high-throughput architecture. (1) LED Light Source: Features interchangeable wavelengths—typically 365 nm (UV), 450 nm (Blue), or 525 nm (Green). 2026 models use high-intensity COB (Chip-on-Board) LEDs that provide uniform photon flux to all reaction vials simultaneously. (2) Magnetic Stirring Base: The reactor sits directly on a standard laboratory magnetic stirrer. Each vial contains a small magnetic "flea" (stir bar) that rotates to ensure a homogenous suspension. (3) Cooling System: Integrated fans or liquid-cooling jackets are critical to dissipate the heat generated by the LEDs, preventing the thermal decomposition of delicate battery precursors like NFPP intermediates. (4) Inert Atmosphere Ports: Allows for nitrogen or argon purging, which is essential for synthesis involving air-sensitive sodium compounds.

References:

E. Pipelzadeh, et al., Photoreduction of CO2 on ZIF-8/TiO2 nanocomposites in a gaseous photoreactor under pressure swing, Applied Catalysis B: Environmental, 2017, 218, 672-678

E. Bahadori, et al., High Pressure Photoreduction of CO2: Effect of Catalyst Formulation, Hole Scavenger Addition and Operating Conditions, Catalysts 2018, 8(10), 430.