A priori modelling of an adiabatic spouted bed catalytic reactor

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Abstract
An a priori reactor model for an adiabatic spouted bed reactor has been developed. This model uses first‐principles mass and energy balances to predict the concentration and temperature profiles in the spout, annulus and fountain regions of the reactor. The particle circulation and voidage profiles in the spout are calculated using previously developed analytical techniques. Particle circulation patterns in the annulus are determined by a minimum path‐length analysis. The spout and fountain are shown to contribute significantly to the overall conversion in the bed. Predicted and experimental conversions at flowrates up to 1.2Ums show that extension of the fountain reaction zone and increased particle circulation with increasing inlet flow makes up for the higher average voidage in the spout and fountain. Experimental data confirm the calculated results for a stably spouting bed with CO oxidation over a Co3O4/αAl2O3 catalyst. The effects of flowrate and inlet reactant concentration are confirmed.