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Liquid Phase Fluid Dynamic (Methanol) Run in the LaPorte Alternative Fuels Development Unit - Topical Report, Final - 1997

Bhatt, Bharat L.

Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.

Table of Contents

Report 1138kb Abstract 2
Executive Summary 3
Introduction 4
Objectives 4
Engineering and Modifications 5
  Process Description 5
Bubble-Column Reactor 6
Analytical Setup 6
Hazards Reviews 6
Environmental Reviews 6
Demonstration Run Plan 7
  Improvements in Catalyst Activation Procedure 7
Alternate Catalyst Qualifications 7
Run Plan 7
Results and Discussion 8
  Carbonyl Burnout 8
Slurry Preparation for Operations with Baseline Catalyst 8
Baseline Catalyst Reduction 8
Process Variable/Fluid Dynamic Study with Baseline Catalyst 9
Slurry Preparation for Operations with Alternate Catalyst 10
Alternate Catalyst Reduction 10
Process Variable/Fluid Dynamic Study with Alternate Catalyst 10
Tracer Study with Alternate Catalyst 12
Catalyst Performance Comparison 12
Operations at High Velocities 13
Mass Balance 13
Gas Holdup Estimates 13
Statistical Analysis of Gas Holdups and Dynamic Gas Disengagement 14
Reactor Temperature Control 15
Conclusions and Recommendations 16
Future Plans 17
Acknowledgements 17
References 17
Tables and Figures  
Appendix A: Improved Catalyst Activation Tests in Laboratory
Appendix B: Laboratory Testing of Alternate Methanol Catalyst
Appendix C: Fluid Dynamic (Methanol) Run Authorizations
Appendix D: Fluid Dynamic (Methanol) Run Chronology
Appendix E: Fluid Dynamic (Methanol) Run Mass Balances
Appendix F: Residual Oil Analysis of Methanol Liquid
Appendix G: Characterization of Slurry Phase Flow in the LaPorte AFDU using DP Measurements