Novel chemical reactors in the curriculum: An instructional module

Abstract

For the production of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals, chemical reactions are often carried out in batch rather than continuous mode. Novel alternatives are the spinning disk reactor [1] and the rotating packed bed reactor [2]. These reactors utilize high gravity to enhance mass transfer in the reactor, leading to significant performance improvements over batch reactors. This module will provide instruction on the phenomena exploited to achieve the improvements in the reactor and its basic configuration. An overview of technology applications and commercial use will be provided. Examination of reaction system yields/selectivity for the alternative reactors will be compared to performance data for conventional reactors. The module is designed for use in the traditional undergraduate reactor design course and could be incorporated into the course as a single lecture or as a homework exercise. © 2012 American Society for Engineering Education.