Numerical simulation of a novel fluidized bed for gas-solid non-catalytic reactions (NRFB)

Abstract

This study proposed a novel fluidized bed (NRFB) to realize gas-solid non-catalytic continuous reaction. Gas and solid flowed in reverse direction in NRFB, achieving high-efficiency contact between particles and gas to form particles. The discrete phase model was used to simulate the gas-solid two-phase flow in NRFB. Basis on an optimum operating gas velocity, the characteristics of the gas-solid two-phase flow field and sodium phenolate carboxylation in NRFB were analyzed. The equal-area torus method was proposed to explore the radial particle distribution. The results showed that the gas in NRFB could be in full contact with solid particles. The introduction of the grid trays could significantly improve radial distribution and increase the residence time of sodium phenolate particles in the dense phase section, thereby improving the reaction efficiency. The simulation results can provide guidance for the determination of the operation parameters in pilot and industrial production of gas-solid non-catalytic reactions.