Abstract

A two-parameter (TP) mixing model for partial segregation has been applied to continuous stirred tank reactors (CSTR) for cases with premixed and unmixed feed. It was found that in the case of perfectly mixed, homogeneous feed the model predicts similar or better results than earlier one-paramete models. However, a significant advantage of the TP model was found in the case of unmixed feed. Its two parameters are suitable for representing two se situations existing in the case of unmixed feed, namely, imperfect mixing of the feed and partial segregation of the reacting mixture. The single-param models cannot be used to represent both phenomena. Reversible and irreversible reactions were studied, and deviations from a perfectly mixed CSTR were into account by considering the RTD expression of Wolf and Resnick. The parameters of the model were determined from experimental data, when available, from arbitrary values within their permissible range, otherwise. Good agreement was found between experimental and predicted conversions.