Kinetic modeling of naphtha catalytic reforming reactions

In this work a kinetic model for the naphtha catalytic reforming process is presented. The model utilizes lumped mathematical representation of the re actions that take place, which are written in terms of isomers of the same nature. These groups range from 1 to 11 atoms of carbon for paraffins, and from 6 to 11 carbon atoms for naphthenes and aromatics. The cyclohexane for mation via methylcyclopentane isomerization and paraffins isomerization rea ctions were considered in the model. Additionally, an Arrhenius-type variat ion was added to the model in order to include the effect of pressure and t emperature on the rate constants. The kinetic parameters values were estima ted using experimental information obtained in a fixed-bed pilot plant. The pilot reactor was loaded with different amounts of catalyst in order to si mulate a series of three reforming reactors. The reformate composition calc ulated with the proposed model agrees very well with experimental informati on.