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Definition: This calculator determines the initial concentration of reactant needed for a second-order reaction in a mixed flow reactor, based on conversion, space time, and rate constant.
Purpose: It helps chemical engineers design reactors and understand reaction kinetics for second-order reactions in continuous stirred-tank reactors (CSTR).
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula relates the initial concentration to the achieved conversion, reactor residence time, and reaction rate constant.
Details: Accurate calculation of initial reactant concentration is crucial for reactor sizing, process optimization, and achieving desired product yields in chemical processes.
Tips:
Q1: What is space time in a mixed flow reactor?
A: Space time is the time required to process one reactor volume of feed at entrance conditions, calculated as reactor volume divided by volumetric flow rate.
Q2: How does conversion affect the initial concentration?
A: Higher conversions require higher initial concentrations (or longer space times) to achieve the same reaction extent.
Q3: What's a typical range for second-order rate constants?
A: Rate constants vary widely depending on the reaction, but common values range from 10^-6 to 10 m³/(mol·s).
Q4: Can this be used for first-order reactions?
A: No, this formula is specific to second-order reactions. First-order reactions have a different relationship.
Q5: What assumptions does this calculation make?
A: It assumes perfect mixing, isothermal conditions, constant density, and a single irreversible second-order reaction.