New model for performance prediction in fixed-bed reactors based on the approach of the unused bed zone

In the present study a practical model useful for designers dealing with pilot scale reactors for pollutant control has been developed. Investigations were undertaken for a single-component lead study on New Zealand clinoptilolite at the temperature of 25±1 ° C. Fifteen runs under different operating conditions such as particle characteristics (expressed as dp*/D), column geometry (as l*/Dl*/D) and flow speed (as Re*) have been performed. The results were interpreted by a response surface method (RSM) from which an equation giving the unused bed zone (UBZ) was obtained. From those dimensionless parameters, a sequence of contour plots was drawn, making it easy for a designer to choose optimum design parameters while controlling the operation performance. The flow rate (Re*) range was established over the laminar flow conditions from 1 to 8, (l/D*) was extended from 7 to 20 and (dp/D*) varied from 3% to 10%. Optimization of performance of the reactor as UBZ could vary from 10% to 40% of the material operating capacity.