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Structured Reactors Based on 3D Fe/SiC Catalysts: Understanding the Effects of Mixing
Gonzalo Vega1, Asuncion Quintanilla1, Pablo López1
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Campus de Cantoblanco, C/Francisco Tomás y Valiente 7, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research
|January 13, 2023
Summary
Structured reactors with 3D Fe/SiC monoliths and meshes were tested for phenol oxidation. Monolithic fixed-bed reactors (MFB) demonstrated superior phenol selectivity and catalyst stability for sustainable dihydroxybenzene production.
Area of Science:
- Chemical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Catalysis
Background:
- Structured reactors offer process advantages.
- Fe/SiC catalysts are key for phenol oxidation.
- Sustainable production of dihydroxybenzenes (DHBZ) is a goal.
Purpose of the Study:
- Compare monolithic and mesh 3D Fe/SiC catalysts.
- Evaluate reactor designs for phenol oxidation.
- Optimize DHBZ production efficiency and selectivity.
Main Methods:
- Robocasting fabrication of 3D Fe/SiC monoliths and meshes.
- Catalytic phenol oxidation using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).
- Analysis of fluid dynamics, mass transport, and catalyst stability in different reactors.
Main Results:
- Mechanical stirring in monolithic reactors mitigates oxygen bubble limitations.
- Backmixing improves H2O2 consumption but reduces DHBZ selectivity.
- Wall porosity, not backmixing, influences Fe leaching in mesh structures.
Conclusions:
- Monolithic fixed-bed reactors (MFB) under plug-flow conditions offer excellent phenol selectivity to DHBZ.
- MFB configuration enhances catalyst stability.
- Optimized reactor design is crucial for sustainable chemical production.
