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.

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.

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.