Multilevel modelling of heterogeneous catalytic reactors

The paper presents the fundamental elements of the multilevel mathematical models of heterogeneous catalytic reactors. These models are derived by mea ns of the volume-averaging method, appropriately modified for the dispersed systems, and provide a theoretical basis for modelling heterogeneous syste ms across scales. The properties of the models are shown and analysed. A th ree-level model of a well-stirred catalytic reactor with bidispersed cataly sts is presented. The model equations are solved by means of multilevel col location. The transient behaviour of the reactor is investigated by means o f computer simulation. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.