Modelling and simulation of adsorption process in a fluidised bed thermochemical energy reactor

Inadequate heat and mass transfers are the main technical barriers associated with fixed bed thermochemical energy reactors. Various studies such as integrated metal foam reaction bed system, impregnation of reactants in consolidated blocks of natural graphite and different configurations of reaction beds have been carried out in the past but dynamic limitations of heat and mass transfers have been observed. To this end, an agitated fluidised bed thermochemical reactor system has been proposed and investigated. The model results showed considerable enhanced adsorption capacities and heat transfer rates. However in order to promote effective exothermic reaction and heat transfer the thermophysical parameters that affect the minimum fluidising velocity (umf) in the adsorption column would have to be optimised. The study has helped to gain insight into column performance in a thermochemical fluidised bed reactor system and thus establishing the basis for experimental evaluation.