Modeling dual reflux-pressure swing adsorption processes: Numerical solution based on the finite volume method

Abstract

Even if the suitability of Finite Volume discretization methods for Pressure Swing Adsorption modelling is well-established, when simulating the peculiar process called Dual Reflux-Pressure Swing Adsorption, simulations relying only on Finite Difference discretization methods are available in literature. Therefore, a detailed single-bed model of the Dual Reflux-Pressure Swing Adsorption process, the solution of which is based on the Finite Volume discretization method, is proposed in this work and validated against experimental data. Details of the system representation, the numerical schemes and the implementation of the boundary conditions are given. Moreover, a comparison between the performances and limitations of the Finite Volume and Finite Difference discretization methods when simulating a Dual Reflux-Pressure Swing Adsorption process are discussed through two case studies, leading to conclude that Finite Volume Method is the most effective approach for simulating this specific separation process.