What is a jacketed glass reactor used for?

What Is a Jacketed Glass Reactor?

A jacketed glass reactor consists of a borosilicate glass vessel with a double-layer (jacketed) wall. The outer jacket allows a heating or cooling fluid (like water, oil, or glycol) to circulate around the inner vessel. This design provides accurate temperature control for the reaction materials inside.

The vessel is usually mounted on a steel frame with stirring mechanisms, temperature sensors, and control systems, allowing researchers to conduct reactions safely and efficiently.

 How Does a Jacketed Glass Reactor Work?

1. Temperature Control

   • A thermal fluid (heating or cooling medium) is pumped through the jacket.

   • Heat exchange occurs through the glass wall, maintaining a stable internal temperature.

   • This is ideal for reactions requiring precise thermal conditions, from -80°C (for cooling) to +250°C (for heating).

2. Mixing & Stirring

   • The reactor includes a mechanical or magnetic stirrer driven by a motor.

   • It ensures uniform mixing, improving reaction efficiency and consistency.

3. Vacuum or Pressure Operation

   • Many jacketed reactors can operate under vacuum conditions to remove solvents or gases, or under pressure for certain synthesis reactions.

4. Observation & Safety

   • The transparent borosilicate glass allows operators to visually monitor the reaction process in real time.

   • The glass material is chemical-resistant and thermal shock–resistant, ensuring safety and longevity.

Main Uses of a Jacketed Glass Reactor

1. Chemical Synthesis

   • Ideal for mixing and reacting raw materials under controlled temperature and stirring conditions.

   • Used in organic synthesis, polymerization, and catalyst reactions.

2. Crystallization

   • Used to grow and purify crystals by carefully controlling temperature and solvent evaporation.

3. Distillation & Reflux

   • Can be connected to condensers for distillation, reflux, or solvent recovery processes.

4. Extraction

   • Suitable for liquid–liquid extraction or separation of components in chemical mixtures.

5. Pharmaceutical Production

   • Commonly used for drug formulation, synthesis of intermediates, and pilot-scale experiments.

6. Material & Nanotechnology Research

   • Used in development of nanomaterials, coatings, and composites requiring precise reaction environments.