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CSIRO - Syncat Facility

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Philip Hazewinkel: Syncat is CSIRO's purpose built facility for research, development and scale up of gas processing and conversion technologies. 

[Images move through to show Philip Hazewinkel talking to the camera, Philip working in a lab, Sana Ullah and Roya Rudd working in a lab, Sana inspecting a small vial of amber liquid, and text appears: Philip Hazewinkel, Senior Experimental Scientist]

At Syncat we test catalytic and synthetic gas technologies and processes under real world conditions.

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Sana Ullah: The Syncat facility combines continuous autonomous operation with advanced data acquisition and safety systems, which helps to accelerate and de-risk the development of emerging technologies and delivering customised solutions for industry and academia.

[Images move through to show James Kear talking with Philip, Philip adjusting dials on lab equipment, a medium and then a side view of view of James talking to the camera, and text appears: James Kear, Principal Engineer and Research Group Leader]

James Kear: Our facilities enable safe, cost effective testing and scale up of new processes, bridging the gap between lab discoveries and real world applications. 

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We support innovation by providing access to state of the art infrastructure that would otherwise be out of reach for many organisations.

[Image changes to show Roya using a Gas Chromatograph, and then the image changes to show Roya talking to the camera, and text appears: Roya Rudd, Scientist Research Scientist]

Roya Rudd: It's not just about equipment, it's also about expertise. 

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Our team brings decades of practical experience and a collaborative approach. 

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Working with us means access to cutting edge capabilities and a strong network of research, government and industry leaders driving real world impact.

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Syncat: CSIRO’s advanced gas processing and conversion hub

Accelerating research in gas processing and conversion

The Syncat Facility is CSIRO’s purpose-built platform for research and development in gas processing and conversion technologies. Designed to support both industry and research, it combines continuous, autonomous operation with advanced data acquisition and safety systems.

Located at the Australian Resources Research Centre in Perth, the facility enables long-duration testing, rapid technology iteration, and detailed investigation of reaction dynamics at scale.

Syncat is exploring CO2 conversion into high-value products such as aviation e-fuel and e-diesel.

Key facility features

Syncat includes two high-throughput gas processing rigs, supported by advanced infrastructure for safe, precise and continuous operation:

  • Autonomous control system: enables continuous autonomous operation over extended periods.
  • Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA): manages over 800 input-output elements for flexible process control and monitoring.
  • Analytical capabilities: provides comprehensive gas analysis and liquid product assessment.
  • Integrated safety systems: including gas detection sensors, remote alerts and emergency shutdown (ESD) functionality.
  • Afterburner plant room: houses an industrial incinerator for safe off-gas disposal.

Download the Syncat Facility brochure PDF (428 KB)

Syncat Facility brochure - accessible text only PDF (428 KB)

What can Syncat be used for?

The Syncat Facility offers large-scale capabilities with high flexibility, enabling in-depth investigations into reaction dynamics and process optimisation. It also supports the application of standard industrial engineering procedures while advancing cutting-edge research.

Equipped with essential gas-handling infrastructure, Syncat provides an integrated platform for gas processing and conversion studies, including:

  • Aviation e-fuels and e-diesel
  • Fischer-Tropsch (FT, FT-SPK) processes
  • E-methane production
  • CO₂ conversion to Methanol and Olefins
  • Gas-phase upgrading and separation technologies

High-precision data acquisition with SCADA

Syncat’s SCADA system enables real-time control and high-resolution data collection for complex experimental processes.

It allows researchers to monitor and manage key variables continuously, generating the data needed to improve modelling and process design.

Capabilities include:

  • Critical process data acquisition: informs kinetic, heat and mass transfer model development.
  • Real-time parameter monitoring: including pressure, temperature and flow, to support accurate mass balance calculations.
  • High-frequency sampling: generates large volumes of data to inform research and development.

Dr Roya Rudd at Syncat

Why partner with us?

Partnering with CSIRO at our Syncat Facility provides access to unique capabilities and expertise to accelerate your research or product development pipeline.

Our partners gain:

  • Access to cutting-edge research: collaborate with leading researchers and gain insights into the latest technological advancements.
  • High-quality, industry-relevant data: generated through continuous operation and advanced monitoring.
  • Customised solutions: tailored research and experimental programs designed to address specific industry challenges.
  • Enhanced efficiency and sustainability: optimise processes for greater efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.
  • Reduced risk and faster innovation: leverage state-of-the-art infrastructure to accelerate R&D and reduce development risks.
  • Collaborative networks: connect with industry leaders, government and academic partners.

Our partners

Syncat is supported by expertise across CSIRO and a strong network of collaborators.

We work closely with local and international partners across industry, defence, government and academia.

Use this service

We welcome expressions of interest from organisations interested in gas conversion research or technology development.

Whether you’re looking to test, trial or demonstrate a gas processing technology, our team can work with you to develop a tailored program.

Contact us to find out more about collaboration opportunities with the Syncat team.

Contacts

Mr James Kear

Principal Engineer and Research Group Leader

Dr Roya Rudd

Senior Research Scientist

Location

Australian Resources Research Centre
26 Dick Perry Avenue
Kensington
WA 6151