Chemical Reaction Engineering Laboratory

• Plan short series of experiments in lab reactors with the intent of satisfying preset goals.
• Analyze reactor models in order to be able to compare model predictions with experimental evidence.
• Modify standard models for simple chemical reactors to get agreement between model description and experimental conditions.
• Combine standard models for simple chemical reactors to a model for the behaviour of non-ideal lab reactors.
• Characterize lab reactors through residence time distributions (measured or model based).
• Calculate upper and lower limits for conversion based on knowledge of residence time distributions.
• Process experimental data in spreadsheets to carry out data analysis, reactor simulation, and graphical representation of data and computational results.
• Compare measured data with reactor calculations carried out through use of simulation software such as Maple or Matlab.
• Judge the accuracy of experimental data, and explain deviations from theoretical predictions.
• Collect the descriptions of exercise planning, execution, results and comparison with theory in well structured reports.

The operation of chemical and catalytic reactors are investigated experimentally: the dynamic startup of an adiabatic tank reactor, residence time distribution, multiple steady states, operation of a catalytic fixed bed reactor. The experimental results are analysed on the basis of theory taught in the introductory course in chemical reaction engineering. Models for the dynamic approach to steady state are developed and implemented in numerical solvers. Application of programs like Excel and Maple/Matlab/Python is an integrated part of the course (see Qualified Prerequisites and Remarks).

28140/28342/28016/28160, A basic course in chemical reaction engineering, such as is part of a bachelor program in chemical engineering, and a basic course in mathematical modelling.

Reports should be written using Word or some other text editing software. Data treatment and analysis involves use of spreadsheets and mathematical simulation software (fx. Excel and Maple/Matlab/Python).

See Remarks.

Laboratory experiments, computer simulations/calculations and writing of reports

Students in the MSc Chemical and Biochemical Engineering program have preferential access.

Students who cannot use spreadsheets and simulation software as specified in the qualified prerequisites will be dropped from the course by the instructor.

Maximum: 21.

Please be aware that this course has a limited number of seats available. If there are too many applicants, a pool will be created for the remainder of the qualified applicants, and they will be selected at random. You will be informed 8 days before the start of the course, whether you have been allocated a spot.