Model-Based Quality, Exergy, and Economic Analysis of Fluidized Bed Membrane Reactors

Area of Science:

• Chemical Engineering
• Reaction Engineering
• Process Simulation

Background:

• Traditional naphtha reforming uses packed bed reactors (PBRs), which suffer from high pressure drop and diffusion limitations.
• Fluidized bed reactors (FBRs) offer improved hydrodynamics but can be enhanced with membrane technology.
• Selective hydrogen removal is key to improving yields in catalytic reforming.

Purpose of the Study:

• To simulate and analyze a fluidized bed membrane reactor (FBMR) for naphtha reforming.
• To compare the performance of FBMR with a conventional fluidized bed reactor (FBR).
• To evaluate the impact of selective hydrogen removal on reformate stream composition.

Main Methods:

• A sequential modular simulation (SMS) approach was employed using Aspen Plus.
• The FBMR was modeled using a combination of plug flow reactors and a continuous stirred tank reactor with a membrane module.
• A comparative model of an FBR without membrane permeation was also developed.

Main Results:

• The FBMR demonstrated enhanced production of aromatic compounds in the reformate stream due to continuous hydrogen elimination.
• Simulation results highlighted the advantages of integrating membranes within fluidized bed reactors for naphtha reforming.
• Exergy and economic analyses were performed for both FBR and FBMR configurations.

Conclusions:

• Fluidized bed membrane reactors offer a superior alternative to conventional packed bed reactors for naphtha reforming.
• Selective hydrogen removal via membranes significantly improves the efficiency and product yield of the reforming process.
• The FBMR design presents a promising pathway for optimizing reformate production in petroleum refineries.