Development and validation of multi-scale models for multiphase flows, using state-of-the-art computational and experimental techniques

Advanced modeling of multiphase chemical reactors

Over the years the research group Multi-Scale Modeling of Multiphase Flows has made key contributions to the fundamentals of chemical reaction engineering. Using highly advanced computer simulations we develop accurate models for multiphase chemical reactors used in industry for the large-scale production of synthetic fuels, fertilisers, detergents, polymers and numerous other products. In addition sophisticated non-invasive monitoring techniques are employed for the detailed validation of the computational models.

Multiphase flows involving mass, momentum and heat transfer are frequently encountered in industrial processes involving granulation, coating, polymerization and other catalytic conversion processes. In these flows the complex phase interactions govern the prevailing flow phenomena such as the formation and evolution of heterogeneous structures to a large extent. These structures have significant impact on the quality of the contact between the phases and as a direct consequence thereof strongly affect reactor performance. Additional complexities arise from the complex interplay between transport phenomena and catalytic transformations in multicomponent systems.