Design, modeling and testing advanced fluidize bed reactors

Project Details
Program
Chemical Engineering
Field of Study
Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Catalysis, Fluidization
Division
Physical Sciences and Engineering
Faculty Lab Link
Center Affiliation
KAUST Catalysis Center
Project Description
This project aims to innovate in the field of chemical engineering by developing advanced fluidized bed reactors tailored for high-performance catalytic processes. Fluidized bed reactors offer superior heat and mass transfer capabilities, making them ideal for a wide range of industrial applications, including chemical synthesis, environmental remediation, energy conversion, and waste valorization.
About the Researcher
Pedro Castano
Associate Professor, Chemical Engineering Physical Science and Engineering Division
Associate Professor, Chemical Engineering
Physical Science and Engineering Division
Desired Project Deliverables
Design: (i) Conceptualize and engineer reactor geometries and internal structures optimized for improved fluidization behavior and catalytic efficiency. (ii) Incorporate advanced materials and components that enhance reactor performance, stability, and durability.
Modeling: (i) Develop detailed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models to simulate and predict fluidization dynamics, reaction kinetics, heat and mass transfer phenomena within the reactor. (ii)
Use simulation outcomes to refine reactor design, reduce experimental costs, and anticipate performance under various operational scenarios.
Testing: (i) Construct and operate laboratory-scale prototypes to validate modeling predictions. (ii) Perform extensive experimental campaigns to evaluate reactor performance, catalyst behavior, and process optimization under realistic conditions.
Recommended Student Background
Reactor and Reaction Engineering
Fluid Dynamics
Dimensionless Numbers
Heterogeneous Catalysis
We are shaping the
World of Research
Be part of the journey with VSRP
3-6 months
Internship period
100+
Research Projects
3.5/4
Cumulative GPA
310
Interns a Year