Work

An optimized method for solution of fixed-bed adsorption model considering particle-size distribution via method of characteristics

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Fixed-bed adsorption is widely used for gas separation. In published work, to consider the impact of adsorbent particle size distribution in fixed-bed adsorption, a novel model integrating population balance equation (PBE) and mass transfer equation was proposed. However, when the PBE problem is high-dimensional, tremendous computation burden is usually unavoidable using numerical method, i.e. high-resolution finite volume algorithm. In this work, we develop an optimized solution algorithm that combines the analytical method of characteristics (MOC) and discrete numerical solving to accelerate the solution of PBE. Comparative analysis of computational performance was conducted between the optimized algorithm and the high-resolution finite volume algorithm. It was demonstrated that the optimized algorithm significantly outperforms the high-resolution method in computational resource consumption while maintaining solution consistency. Moreover, numerical dispersion was reduced. These improvements enhance the joint model's prediction accuracy and speed for adsorbent adsorption behavior considering particle size distribution, enabling the model to demonstrate strong application potential in fixed-bed adsorption simulation and prediction.

Source: Chemical Engineering Journal Advances

DOI: 10.1016/j.ceja.2025.100926

Authors: Zhaoyuan Zhang, Yidan Shu

Institution: Sun Yat-sen University

Language: English

Topic: Heat and Mass Transfer in Porous Media

Subfield: Computational Mechanics

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,050

Funder: Guangzhou Municipal Science and Technology Project