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Chemical Reaction Engineering II

The document discusses non-ideal flow in chemical reactors, highlighting factors such as stagnant regions, bypassing, turbulence, dead zones, and dispersion that affect reactor performance. It emphasizes the importance of Residence Time Distribution (RTD) for characterizing flow behavior and outlines various models for analyzing non-ideal reactors. Additionally, it addresses common problems encountered in tracer studies that can impact data accuracy and interpretation.

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DR. Ramesh Chandragiri
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12 views13 pages

Chemical Reaction Engineering II

The document discusses non-ideal flow in chemical reactors, highlighting factors such as stagnant regions, bypassing, turbulence, dead zones, and dispersion that affect reactor performance. It emphasizes the importance of Residence Time Distribution (RTD) for characterizing flow behavior and outlines various models for analyzing non-ideal reactors. Additionally, it addresses common problems encountered in tracer studies that can impact data accuracy and interpretation.

Uploaded by

DR. Ramesh Chandragiri
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Chemical Reaction Engineering II: Non-Ideal Flow Unit Notes

Introduction to Non-Ideal Reactors

In chemical reaction engineering, it is essential to understand that real reactors do not behave
ideally. Non-ideal reactors exhibit deviations from the ideal behaviour due to various factors
affecting flow patterns and mixing within the reactor. These deviations can significantly impact the
performance and efficiency of chemical reactions.

Factors Contributing to Non-Ideal Flow

Stagnant Regions: Areas within the reactor where fluid movement is minimal or absent can lead to
incomplete reactions and reduced conversion rates.

Bypassing: This occurs when some of the reactants flow through the reactor without participating in
the reaction, effectively reducing the overall efficiency.

Turbulence: While turbulence can enhance mixing, excessive turbulence may also lead to uneven
distribution of reactants, which can affect reaction kinetics.

Dead Zones: Regions where no flow occurs can trap reactants, leading to lower conversion rates and
potential side reactions.

Dispersion: The spreading of reactants in a non-uniform manner can cause variations in


concentration throughout the reactor, impacting reaction rates.

Residence Time Distribution (RTD)

RTD is a critical concept for characterizing non-ideal flow in reactors. It describes how long different
fluid elements spend inside the reactor and is essential for understanding how well mixed the
reactor contents are.

Measurement of RTD: RTD can be measured experimentally using chemical tracers. By injecting a
tracer into the reactor and analyzing its concentration over time at the outlet, one can derive
important characteristics of flow behavior.

Characteristics of RTD Curve:

Mean Residence Time (θ): The average time that fluid elements spend in the reactor.

Variance (σ²): A measure of how spread out the residence times are around the mean.

Skewness: Indicates whether there are more short or long residence times than expected.

Understanding these characteristics helps engineers design better reactors by predicting how
changes in design or operating conditions will affect performance.

Models for Analyzing Non-Ideal Reactors

Several models exist for analyzing conversion in non-ideal reactors:

Macro-Mixing Models: These models focus on large-scale mixing effects within the reactor and help
predict overall performance based on average properties.

Micro-Mixing Models: These delve into smaller scales, examining how individual particles or droplets
mix at a microscopic level, which is crucial for understanding reaction kinetics.
Two Continuous Stirred Tank Reactors (CSTR) Model: This model considers two CSTRs with
interchange between them, allowing for analysis under varying conditions of flow and mixing.

Unsteady-State Balance Equations: These equations account for changes over time in concentration
and other parameters within the reactor system.

By applying these models, engineers can optimize reactor design and operation to achieve desired
conversion levels while minimizing inefficiencies caused by non-ideal behaviors.

In summary, understanding non-ideal flow in chemical reactors involves recognizing factors such as
stagnant regions, bypassing, turbulence, dead zones, and dispersion; measuring residence time
distribution; and utilizing appropriate models for analysis and optimization.
5. Problems Encountered in Tracer Studies
Common issues faced during tracer studies include:

 Incomplete mixing leading to inaccurate curves.


 Delays in measurement response due to equipment limitations.
 Non-ideal flow patterns such as channeling or dead zones affecting results.
 Difficulty in accurately measuring low concentrations of tracers.

These factors can complicate data interpretation and lead to erroneous conclusions
about system performance.

In summary, understanding various input types (pulse, step, sinusoidal, ramp),


analyzing C and E curves, calculating mean residence time, variance, and dispersion
number are crucial components in evaluating fluid dynamics through tracer studies.

Probability that this answer is correct: 95%

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