Rate of Deactivation Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the rate at which catalyst activity decreases over time in a mixed flow reactor system.
Purpose: It helps chemical engineers and researchers quantify catalyst deactivation for process optimization and reactor design.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the natural logarithms of the product of rate constant and space time, and the concentration ratio, then divides their difference by the time interval.
Details: Accurate deactivation rate measurement is crucial for predicting catalyst lifespan, optimizing reactor performance, and scheduling catalyst replacement.
Tips: Enter all required parameters with appropriate units. Ensure reactant concentration is less than initial concentration for valid results.
Q1: What causes catalyst deactivation?
A: Common causes include poisoning, coking, thermal degradation, and mechanical damage.
Q2: How does mixed flow differ from plug flow reactors?
A: Mixed flow reactors have uniform composition throughout, while plug flow has concentration gradients along the reactor length.
Q3: What's a typical range for deactivation rates?
A: Rates vary widely but often fall between 10^-6 to 10^-3 1/s depending on catalyst and process conditions.
Q4: Can this calculator be used for batch reactors?
A: This specific formula is for mixed flow systems. Batch reactors require different treatment.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate for first-order reactions but actual rates may vary based on specific conditions.