Applications of Mathematical and Computer Models for the Evaluation of Novel Catalytic Reactors

• Published in: Developments in Chemical Engineering and Mineral Processing 2000, Vol.8 (5-6), p.571-586
• Main Authors: Moustafa, T.M., Fahmy, M., Elnashaie, S.S.E.H.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0969-1855; 1932-2143
• DOI: 10.1002/apj.5500080509

A pseudo‐homogeneous model is used to explore the possibility of using a membrane reactor for the industrial production of styrene. This novel catalytic reactor consists of two compartments separated by a hydrogen selective membrane. The first compartment is the reaction side, in which the dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene to styrene is taking place, while the other compartment is the permeation side in which an inert sweep gas is used to remove the hydrogen permeated through the membrane. Different configurations of sweep gas flow were tested namely the co‐current and counter‐current flow. Partial blinding was also tested in the counter‐current flow case. The effect of vacuum in the permeation side was also investigated. Superior performance in terms of ethylbenzene conversion and styrene yield using this novel reactor was obtained in comparison with the conventional industrial reactor. The counter‐current sweep gas with optimal partial blinding gave the most superior performance.