Performance evaluation of a novel concept “Open Plate Reactor” applied to highly exothermic reactions

Abstract

The implementation of chemical reactions in batch or semi-batch reactors is strongly limited by the constraints linked to the dissipation of the heat generated by the reactions. The novel concept of heat exchanger reactors offers enhanced thermal performances in a continuously operating reactor. A study program is proposed to assess the feasibility and potentialities of this novel concept. Two kinds of reactions are carried out to characterize simultaneously the reactor performances in terms of reaction and heat exchange: the oxidation of sodium thiosulfate by hydrogen peroxide and an acido-basic reaction (NaOH/H2SO4). The resultant experimental data emphasize a significant thermal efficiency : the reactant concentrations and therefore the heat generation can be increased without risk of thermal runaway.