Photocatalytic degradation in annular reactor: Modelization and optimization using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and response surface methodology (RSM)

The modelization and optimization of a photocatalytic process is a complicated task due to its complex nature. Development of strategies for modeling and optimization may lead to fast and successful commercialization of photocatalytic technology. In the present paper, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and response surface methodology (RSM) in combination were utilized for the modelization and optimization of the photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B in an annular photocatalytic reactor. CFD was firstly used to model and simulate the photocatalytic process. The outcome of the CFD model was compared with the experimental results for validation of the model. RSM was then utilized for optimization of the process based upon the data derived from the CFD simulations. The optimal conditions obtained were also verified against the experimental results. It was found that CFD and RSM can be applied for optimization of the photocatalytic processes to save time, cost and effort.