A model for transient diffusion in bidisperse pore structures

Abstract

A bidisperse model for transient diffusion and adsorption processes in porous materials is presented in this paper. The mathematical model is solved by numerical methods based on finite elements combined with the linear driving force approximation. A criterion based on the model to identify the diffusion controlling mechanism (macropore diffusion, micropore diffusion, or both) is proposed. The effects of different adsorption isotherms (linear, Freundlich, or Langmuir) on the concentration profiles and on curves of fractional uptake versus time are investigated. In addition, the influences of model parameters concerning the pore networks on the fractional uptake are studied as well.