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Modeling of a continuous pretreatment reactor using computational fluid dynamics

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Abstract

Computational fluid dynamic simulations are employed to predict flow characteristics in a continuous auger driven reactor designed for the dilure acid pretreatment of biomass. Slurry containing a high concentration of biomass solids exhibits a high viscosity, which poses unique mixing issues within the reactor. The viscosity increases significantly with a small increase in solids concentration and also varies with temperature. A well-mixed slurry is desirable to evenly distribute acid on biomass, prevent buildup on the walls of the reactor, and provides an uniform final product. Simulations provide flow patterns obtained over a wide range of viscosities and pressure distributions, which may affect reaction rates. Results provide a tool for analyzing sources of inconsistencies in product quality and insight into future design and operating parameters.

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Abbreviations

c:

Newtonian proportionality constant (dimensionless)

D:

Diameter (m)

F:

Volumetric flow rate (m3/s)

k:

Shear rate constant (dimensionless)

L:

Length (m)

M:

Torque (Nm)

N:

Rotation rate (rps)

P:

Pressure (Pa)

r:

Redius (m)

Re:

Reynolds number (dimensionless)

V:

Velocity (m/s)

γ:

Shear rate (/s)

η:

Viscosity (kg/m·s)

π:

Density (kg/m3)

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Louisville, 40292, Louisville, KY

    R. Eric Berson & Rajesh K. Dasari

  2. Auburn University, 36849, Auburn, AL

    Thomas R. Hanley

Authors
  1. R. Eric Berson
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  2. Rajesh K. Dasari
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  3. Thomas R. Hanley
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Correspondence to R. Eric Berson.

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Berson, R.E., Dasari, R.K. & Hanley, T.R. Modeling of a continuous pretreatment reactor using computational fluid dynamics. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 130, 621–630 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1385/ABAB:130:1:621

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1385/ABAB:130:1:621

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