Space Time Formula:
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Definition: Space time is the time necessary to process volume of reactor fluid at the entrance conditions for a zero-order reaction in a plug flow reactor.
Purpose: It helps chemical engineers determine the required residence time for a given conversion in a plug flow reactor operating with a zero-order reaction.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The space time is directly proportional to the desired conversion and initial concentration, and inversely proportional to the reaction rate constant.
Details: Proper space time estimation ensures optimal reactor design, efficient conversion rates, and cost-effective operation in chemical processes.
Tips: Enter the reactant conversion (0-1), initial concentration (mol/m³), and rate constant (mol/(m³·s)). All values must be positive, with conversion between 0 and 1.
Q1: What is a zero-order reaction?
A: A reaction where the rate is independent of the reactant concentration, proceeding at a constant rate.
Q2: What's typical range for rate constants?
A: Rate constants vary widely depending on the reaction, typically ranging from 10-6 to 102 mol/(m³·s).
Q3: How does plug flow differ from batch?
A: Plug flow is continuous with spatial variation, while batch is time-dependent in a closed system.
Q4: What if my conversion is 100%?
A: Enter 1.0 for conversion. Note that zero-order reactions can't reach 100% conversion as rate becomes zero.
Q5: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent SI units: mol/m³ for concentrations and seconds for time.