Analysis of simulated moving-bed reactors

The simulated moving-bed reactor (SMBR) combines continuous countercurrent chromatographic separation with chemical reaction. This is a hybrid process , not energy-intensive and is competitive with traditional processes in whi ch reaction and separation are carried out in different devices. The ideal application of this technology is to reactions where the once-through conve rsion is limited by chemical equilibrium. In this case SMBRs can achieve si multaneously the goals of complete conversion and separation of the product s. Examples are esterifications, transesterifications, etherifications, ace tilations, some isomerisations, hydrogenations, some enzyme reactions and o thers. A complete analysis of the behaviour of SMBs without chemical reacti on is available. SMBR units are more complex than SMBs and more properties have to be accounted for, such as the reaction rate and the equilibrium con version. The purpose of this work is to illustrate the behaviour and develo p a design strategy for SMBRs, based on our understanding of the correspond ing non-reactive units. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.