Mathematical modeling of unsteady-state operation taking into account adsorption and chemisorption processes on the catalyst pellet

In this paper the dynamics of hydrocarbons deep oxidation in. the catalyst pellet with account of intraparticle diffusion limitations under alternatin g adsorption stage and oxidation one is studied by means of mathematical mo deling. As an example the isopropyl benzene oxidation by oxygen on Cu/Cr/Al oxide catalyst is considered. It is shown that intraparticle diffusion lim itation significantly influence both adsorption and oxidation performance. The modeling results demonstrate the existence of the optimal catalyst pell et size, providing the maximum purification efficiency in the adsorption-ca talytic process of VOC abatement. (C) 1999 Else vier Science Ltd. All right s reserved.