Optimizing Multiphase Catalytic Performance: A Comparative Evaluation of Structured and Oscillatory Baffled Reactors
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61978/catalyx.v2i4.1278Keywords:
process intensification, oscillatory baffled reactor, structured reactor, mass transfer, multiphase catalysis, catalytic performance, reactor selectionAbstract
This study compares the performance of structured reactors and oscillatory baffled reactors (OBRs) in multiphase catalytic systems to identify optimal designs for process intensification. The objective is to assess their efficiency under standardized operating conditions for gas-liquid-solid catalytic reactions. Experimental and computational analyses were conducted using washcoated structured foams and OBRs subjected to oscillatory flow. Both systems were tested under identical temperature, pressure, and space velocity conditions. Performance metrics included conversion, selectivity, space-time yield (STY), volumetric mass transfer coefficient (kLa), and operational stability. Additional data were collected on residence time distribution (RTD), energy consumption, and maintenance requirements. Results showed that OBRs achieved higher conversion (90%) and STY (1.5 mol·L⁻¹·h⁻¹), driven by enhanced mixing and mass transfer (kLa = 0.12 s⁻¹). Structured reactors exhibited higher selectivity (92%), lower pressure drop (ΔP = 5 kPa), and improved operational stability. While OBRs demonstrated greater reactivity, they required more maintenance and energy input. The findings underscore a trade-off between catalytic performance and operational simplicity. OBRs are well-suited for mass transfer-limited systems, while structured reactors provide long-term reliability. This study offers a reactor selection framework based on process constraints, supporting intensified reactor design in catalysis.
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