Abstract
A design for a slug flow reactor, referred to as the confined slug flow (CSF) reactor, is presented and some hydrodynamic issues for this reactor are considered. Particular attention is given to the prediction of gas bubble and liquid slug velocities and lengths. These parameters are found to be described adequately by modified forms of relationships for conventional slug flow operation. In combination with the continuity equations for slug flow, the modified velocity relationships enable the evaluation of liquid film properties (and subsequently mass transfer coefficients), as well as liquid and gas residence times. The studies demonstrate the possibilities of using catalyst inserts within monolith blocks under slug flow operation, and thus improved flexibility in the design of mass-transfer-enhanced, three-phase, structured reactor systems. © 2004 Institution of Chemical Engineers.