Vapour phase chemical reaction in spouted beds: Verification of theory

Abstract The performance of a 0.15 m diameter spouted bed reactor has been studied for decomposition of ozone on iron oxide catalyst. The variables include bed depth, catalyst particle size and spouting gas velocity. The spouted bed conversion data are compared against predictions from theoretical models proposed previously by Mathur and Lim who assumed vertically upward flow of annular gas in their first, one-dimensional model, and flow along curved streamlines in a subsequent, more rigorous, streamtube model. Experimental results show good agreement with conversions predicted by both models, but the latter model is expected to be superior for design of larger reactors. Additional experiments to discriminate between the two models and to establish their range of validity are planned.