Modelling and simulation of trickle-bed reactors using computational fluid dynamics: A state-of-the-art review

The Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, Early View (Online Version of Record published before inclusion in an issue)
Modelling and simulation of trickle-bed reactors using computational fluid dynamics: A state-of-the-art review
Yining Wang^1,2,
Jinwen Chen¹,
Faical Larachi^2,*
faical.larachi@gch.ulaval.ca
¹ CanmetENERGY, Natural Resources Canada, Devon, Alberta, Canada, T9G 1A8
² Department of Chemical Engineering, Laval University, Quebec, Quebec, Canada, G1V 0A6
Abstract
Non-ideal flow behaviours may significantly reduce the effectiveness of a trickle-bed reactor. Because of the complex coupling between fluid dynamics and chemical kinetics, conventional TBR modelling cannot properly account for these non-ideal behaviours. Recent advances in the application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to three-phase TBR systems have shown promise of achieving a deeper understanding of the interactions between multiphase fluid dynamics and chemical reactions.
Authors provide a state-of-the-art overview of the progress achieved in the field of CFD simulation of TBRs over the past two decades. The fundamental modelling framework of multiphase flow in TBRs, advances in important constitutive models, and the application of CFD models are discussed.
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