To better understand some of the key parameters that control biomass conversion processes in dense granular beds, an efficient computational framework for large-scale simulations of dense, reactive particulate flows using a Lagrange-Euler approach has been developed. This framework is applied here to the investigation of feed injection in a hot fluidized bed reactor, and how it may impact the biomass conversion dynamics. A simple, pseudo-two dimensional configuration is adopted to facilitate the parametric study. Chemical processes are modeled using global kinetics that accurately reproduce particle mass loss and gas release. A posteriori analysis of particle heating rate, mixing and segregation, along with products distribution and residence time inside the reactor is performed for different injection strategies, and compared to non-reactive cases. Results highlight some non-trivial coupling between chemistry and flow dynamics.

Impact of feed injection strategies on fluidization dynamics for biomass thermochemical conversion

244th National Meeting (2012)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.