Dynamic one-dimensional pseudohomogeneous model for Fischer-Tropsch fixed-bed reactors

Abstract

A dynamic one-dimensional pseudohomogeneous fixed-bed Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) reactor model in a non-isothermal regime is developed. The proposed dynamic model is validated with experimental data obtained from the literature and is compared with simulations of a steady-state one-dimensional isothermal fixed-bed FTS reactor model recently reported. The best set of initial operating conditions showing highest syngas conversions (CO and H2) and high heavy hydrocarbons (C5+) selectivities correspond to temperature, pressure and gas hourly spaces velocity (GHSV) of 503 and 518 K, 1.0 and 1.5 MPa, and 1800 NmL/gcat·h respectively. The proposed model is able to accurately predict the CO conversion experimental data and products selectivity. Furthermore, it allows to evaluate the thermal behavior of the reactor, as well as to analyze the hot-spot generation typically observed in highly exothermic reactions such as in the case of the FTS reaction.