Advanced Industrial Process Chemistry Lab

Lab Objectives

• Analyse how the main chemical reactors work o Compare plug flow reactors (PFR) and laminar flow tubular reactors in terms of yield, mixing and residence time distribution. o Study the system’s response to step or pulse changes, simulating second-order reactions. o Assess reactant conversion using conductivity probes and visual indicators.
• Understand flow and mixing dynamics in tubular reactors o Observe fluid behaviour under ideal and real conditions. o Analyse the effect of premixing and flow distribution on reaction yield. o Compare the behaviour of the (ideal) plug flow reactor with that of the laminar flow reactor.
• Acquire experimental and instrumental skills o Use computer-controlled reactors, monitor reaction conditions and collect quantitative data. o Manage the reaction temperature using chilled water circulation units, observing their impact on the process. o Interpret conversion curves and compare them with theoretical models.

Educational Aims

• Put the concepts of chemical kinetics and reactor engineering into practice with hands-on, visual activities.
• Build technical and scientific skills: using advanced teaching equipment, managing computer-controlled systems, measuring process parameters.
• Train critical and experimental thinking: planning tests, collecting and interpreting data, comparing ideal and real models.
• Prepare students for the industrial world, where plug flow and continuous reactors are essential in the chemical, pharmaceutical and food sectors.
• Raise awareness of the variability of real systems compared with ideal theoretical models.

Conclusion

By the end of the exercises, students will be able to: 1. Describe and compare the behaviour of different types of reactor (plug flow, laminar, continuous). 2. Monitor chemical conversion experimentally, recognising the impact of parameters such as temperature, flow, mixing and residence time. 3. Critically analyse experimental data, identifying deviations from ideal behaviour. 4. Develop autonomy in controlling and using complex teaching plants, useful for small-scale industrial simulations. This lab provides a solid educational foundation for advanced courses in chemical engineering and process control, and for entering production and research environments. This solution includes technology systems that support inclusion and equal opportunities through the use of innovative teaching methods. It is designed to promote active and collaborative learning.