Press release summary
Shimadzu Corp. and Kyoto Prefectural University have started a pilot program to evaluate refurbished analytical instruments in an academic laboratory. Shimadzu will repair used high-performance liquid chromatography systems and loan them to the university’s Laboratory of Forest Resource Circulatory System. Researchers will assess data validity, instrument durability, user experience and operating conditions, including frequency and duration of use.
The laboratory plans to use the HPLC systems in research involving woody biomass. Its work includes producing and recovering 5-hydroxymethylfurfural from wood-derived cellulose and exploring polyethylene furanoate, a plant-based material that could serve as an alternative to petroleum-derived polyethylene terephthalate. The university will also examine whether refurbished instruments can reduce research costs, support student education and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Why it matters for laboratories
The pilot moves the refurbished-equipment discussion beyond purchase price. By collecting performance, reliability and usage data under real research conditions, it could provide laboratory managers with evidence for evaluating previously used instruments. A successful model could extend equipment life, improve access to HPLC capabilities and reduce the environmental footprint associated with replacing serviceable systems.
Original source: Shimadzu’s Oct. 2, 2026, announcement.
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