KJ GROUP VGB-10-I Single-Station Glovebox

Overview

The KJ GROUP VGB-10-I Single-Station Glovebox is an engineered inert-atmosphere workstation designed for reproducible handling of air- and moisture-sensitive materials in research and development environments. It operates on a closed-loop recirculation principle, integrating catalytic deoxygenation and molecular sieve-based dehydration to achieve and sustain ultra-low contamination levels—specifically ≤1 ppm O₂ and ≤1 ppm H₂O—under standard ambient conditions (20 °C, 1 atm). The system utilizes a dual-stage purification architecture: German BASF palladium-based oxygen scavengers remove trace O₂ through catalytic recombination, while U.S.-sourced UOP 3Å/4Å molecular sieves adsorb residual water vapor with high selectivity and capacity. This configuration enables long-term stability of the internal atmosphere without manual intervention, supporting extended synthesis, characterization, and assembly protocols involving alkali metals, organometallics, solid-state electrolytes, and air-sensitive catalysts.

Key Features

• PLC-driven automation with 6-inch touchscreen interface supporting English/Chinese language toggle and real-time visualization of O₂, H₂O, pressure, and system status.
• Integrated dual-mode control: manual override and programmable auto-cycle for gas purification, regeneration, and pressure equilibration.
• Automated reduction sequence for oxygen removal using H₂/inert gas mixtures—configured per user-defined safety protocols and sensor feedback.
• Dual-layer 12 mm laminated tempered glass viewport with interior anti-corrosion film ensures optical clarity and mechanical integrity during repeated pressure cycling.
• Redundant sensing architecture: GE moisture transducers and AII electrochemical oxygen sensors provide independent, high-resolution (±0.1 ppm) continuous monitoring with automatic calibration verification.
• Edwards scroll vacuum pump (8.4–12 m³/h) coupled with KF40 auxiliary ports enables rapid chamber evacuation and seamless integration with external vacuum lines or analytical instrumentation.
• Modular filtration: Combined HEPA (0.3 µm, ISO Class 5) and activated carbon cartridge at exhaust/circulation path mitigates particulate and organic vapor emissions during solvent-intensive operations.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The VGB-10-I accommodates diverse sample forms—including powders, thin films, electrodes, crystals, and liquid precursors—within its 1200 × 800 × 930 mm main chamber. Its ≤0.05 vol%/h leak rate meets ASTM E595 outgassing requirements for low-permeability enclosures, while the validated ≤1 ppm O₂/H₂O baseline supports compliance with battery electrode manufacturing guidelines (e.g., IEEE 1625, JIS C 8714) and GLP-aligned material synthesis workflows. All internal surfaces are electropolished stainless steel (304 grade), minimizing catalytic decomposition and facilitating cleaning validation. The North-brand gloves meet ASTM D6978-05 for chemical resistance against common solvents (DMF, THF, NMP) and exhibit low helium permeability (<0.5 cm³·mm/m²·day·atm), ensuring atmospheric integrity during prolonged manipulation.

Software & Data Management

The embedded control firmware logs all critical parameters—including sensor outputs, valve actuation states, pump runtime, and alarm events—with UTC timestamps and user-identifiable session tags. Data export is supported via USB port in CSV format for post-processing in MATLAB, Python, or LIMS platforms. Audit trails comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with networked authentication (optional add-on). No cloud connectivity is enabled by default; local storage retains ≥30 days of continuous operation history. Firmware updates are performed offline via secure USB key to maintain system isolation in regulated laboratories.

Applications

• Electrode fabrication for Li-ion, Na-ion, and solid-state batteries under O₂/H₂O-free conditions.
• Synthesis and handling of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), ZIFs, and air-sensitive precatalysts (e.g., Ni(COD)₂, Pd(dba)₃).
• Encapsulated quantum dot processing, perovskite thin-film deposition, and photovoltaic device assembly.
• Handling of pyrophoric reagents (e.g., t-BuLi, DIBAL-H), alkali metal anodes (Li, Na), and sulfur-rich cathode composites.
• In-situ spectroelectrochemical cell assembly and sealed electrolyte filling for coin-cell and pouch-cell testing.

FAQ

What inert gases are compatible with the VGB-10-I?
N₂, Ar, and He are fully supported as primary process gases. H₂ may be introduced only in controlled mixtures (≤5% v/v) during regeneration cycles, subject to integrated safety interlocks.
Can the glovebox interface with external analytical instruments?
Yes—via the standard KF40 vacuum flange and optional universal feedthrough plate (304 stainless steel), enabling feed of electrical signals, gas lines, or vacuum connections into the chamber.
How frequently does the purification media require replacement?
Under typical usage (8 h/day, <1 ppm baseline maintained), BASF oxygen cartridges last 12–18 months and UOP desiccant modules 9–15 months; lifetime is tracked automatically and displayed on the HMI.
Is remote monitoring supported?
Local Ethernet port allows LAN-based read-only access to live sensor values and event logs; full remote control requires on-site security assessment and optional hardware firewall integration.
Does the system meet ISO 14644 cleanroom classification standards?
While not rated as a cleanroom, the integrated HEPA + carbon filtration achieves particle counts consistent with ISO Class 5 (≤3,520 particles/m³ ≥0.3 µm) inside the chamber during recirculation mode.