Horiba Develops Autonomous Catalyst Experimentation System

Horiba Advances Automated Catalyst Material Research

Horiba Ltd has announced plans to accelerate development of an automated, autonomous experimentation system intended to streamline research into catalyst materials for fuel cells. The system combines multiple analytical and measurement instruments with software to automate the experimental workflow used during catalyst material development. It is also designed to consolidate and analyze acquired data so that research teams can use the resulting information to determine subsequent experiments more effectively. By connecting experimentation, measurement, and data analysis within a coordinated process, Horiba Ltd aims to create a more integrated approach to catalyst research.

Integrated Software and Laboratory Hardware

The system developed by Horiba Ltd automates the experimental process from sample transport through measurement and data management. At its software core is the company's proprietary “STARS Enterprise” platform, which automates laboratory data management and testing processes. The platform is integrated with hardware including sample transport systems, particle size distribution analyzers, and automatic calcination devices. These calcination devices heat samples to high temperatures to induce physical and chemical changes. Combining these components allows the Horiba Ltd system to coordinate physical sample handling, analytical measurement, and information management as part of a connected experimental workflow.

Planned Expansion of System Capabilities

Going forward, Horiba plans to broaden the capabilities of the experimentation system by integrating additional devices and strengthening its data management functions. The expansion is intended to further connect laboratory equipment with the software environment and improve how experimental information is consolidated and analyzed. By increasing the number of devices that can participate in the automated workflow, the system can support a wider range of research activities associated with catalyst material development for fuel cells. Enhanced data management will also support the process of using acquired experimental results to inform subsequent experiments, reinforcing the system's autonomous experimentation approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Horiba developing for fuel cell catalyst research?
Horiba is developing an automated autonomous experimentation system that integrates laboratory instruments, sample handling equipment, and software to automate catalyst material research workflows. The system is designed to manage processes ranging from sample transport and measurement to data consolidation and analysis. Its software foundation is the proprietary “STARS Enterprise” platform, which supports laboratory data management and testing automation. Horiba also plans to expand the system by integrating additional devices and enhancing data management capabilities, allowing experimental results to more effectively inform subsequent research activities.