Process intensification using novel micro-structured heterogeneous contacting systems

I&EC 140

Ranjeeth R Kalluri, kallura@auburn.edu, Dept. Of Chemical Engineering, Auburn University, 0322A Haley Center, Auburn, AL 36849, Donald R Cahela, cahelda@eng.auburn.edu, Dept. Of Chem. Engineering, Auburn University, 0322A Haley Center, Auburn, AL 36849, and Bruce J Tatarchuk, Department Of Chemical Engineering, Auburn University, 0322 Haley Center, Auburn, AL 36830.
Microfibrous Supported Catalysts/Sorbents provide for an excellent means of process intensification. The present research aims at understanding the enhanced transport rates exhibited by these systems. These innovative materials are prepared in a wet lay process in which micron diameter fibers and 50-300 micrometer particles self-assemble to form extremely uniform structures with high voidages. The typical flow conditions used in these materials correspond to extremely low particle Reynolds numbers (Re<1). Experimental results of hexane breakthrough tests on packed beds of various particle sizes (0.8-0.15mm) with varying dilutions and microfibrous supported carbon of varying void fractions will be presented. The small diameter particles used in microfibrous media reduce transport resistances; the uniformity and the high voidages inherently present in these materials lead to substantial reduction in channeling and axial dispersion compared to packed beds of similar particle sizes. Mathematical models were used to further analyze the flow characteristics in these microstructures.
 

Process Intensification, Sponsored by Novel Chemistry with Industrial Applications Sub-Division
1:30 PM-3:55 PM, Tuesday, 12 September 2006 Moscone Center -- Room 252/254, Oral

Division of Industrial & Engineering Chemistry

The 232nd ACS National Meeting, San Francisco, CA, September 10-14, 2006