Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Chapter 1

1. In the formula for CSTR, if the rate of reaction is not constant and is dependent on the concentration, should we take to mean? the integral mean?

   Because the reactor is well-mixed, the concentrations, temperature, and rate of reaction are the same throughout the reactor volume, including the point at which it exits the reactor. Consequently, the concentrations, temperature, and rate of reaction in the reactor are all evaluated at the exit conditions of the CSTR.

2. What is the difference between packed bed and fluidized bed reactors?

   Packed Bed Reactor: Catalyst particles are packed in a tube
   Fluidized Bed Reactor: Analogous to a CSTR with catalyst particles being blown around inside the reactor, see Figure 10-16 (p.620).

3. Why does a semi-batch reactor have better temperature control than a batch reactor?

   One can also control the feed rate of one of the reactants as well as control the heat exchanger system.

4. Why would you choose to have CSTRs and PFRs in series?

   It is what reactors you might have on hand that you could connect together to obtain a high conversion.