Investigation of flow dynamics of phosphate fertilizer production reactors using radiotracer technique

Radiotracer investigations were carried out in two identical phosphoric acid production reactors and a triple super phosphate (TSP) production reactor in three different plants in Tunisia. The main objective of the study was to investigate and compare their flow behavior and identify flow abnormalities, if any. Residence time distribution (RTD) of the process material (ore pulp) was measured in the three reactors using Iodine-131. The measured RTDs were treated and analyzed to obtain flow parameters such as the mean residence time (MRT), dead volume, and extent of bypassing. The treated RTD curves were modeled using a suitable mathematical model, and the values of the parameters were obtained. The results of the investigations were used to evaluate and compare the flow performance of the reactors, quantify the degree of mixing, and visualize the prevailing flow patterns. The results of the investigations are expected to be used to make necessary modifications to enhance the efficiency and optimize the performance of the reactors or the production process.