Extended Definition of Conversion and Reaction Extent for a Systematic Development of the Design Equations for Reactor Networks

Abstract

The aim of this work is to present in a systematic way a novel general methodology to develop the design equations (heat and mass balances) for networks of ideal reactors, that is, Plug-Flow Reactors (PFRs) and Continuous Stirred Tank Reactors (CSTRs). In particular, after introducing the general definition of conversion to be used for reactor networks, several case studies of interest in chemical engineering are presented as topic-examples of application: (i) adiabatic-stage reactors with recycle, (ii) adiabatic-stage reactors with split, (iii) adiabatic-stage reactors intercooled by reactants and (iv) adiabatic-stage reactors with interstage distributed feed. More generally, the presented methodology can also be applied to develop the design equations for complex networks of interconnected reactors, not restricted to those considered in the present work. The motivation behind the present study lies in the fact that, to the best of our knowledge, a systematic development of the design equations of single reactors in reactor networks is currently missing in the open literature as well as in the reference textbooks of chemical reaction engineering and reactor design.