CFD model for the simulation of chemical looping combustion

A chemical looping combustion (CLC) system uses a metal oxide solid carrier to combust a source of fuel in isolation from the source of oxygen which produces an exhaust gas of primarily carbon dioxide and water. In this work, a full three-dimensional model of a chemical looping combustion system was developed to simulate the particle–fluid hydrodynamics, thermal characteristics, and reaction efficiency of the CLC system using coal particles as a fuel source. Multiple heterogeneous and homogenous reactions are considered in the CLC model including the oxidation and reduction reactions of the metal oxide carrier and gasification reactions. Within each coal particle, the temperature-dependent devolatilization, moisture release, and particle swelling effects are included. Modeling results showing fluidization regimes, circulation rate, reactor efficiencies, and temperature profiles are presented to demonstrate the utility of the model.