(Membrane reactor) The first-order, gas-phase, reversible reaction

A ⎯⎯→ B2C ←⎯⎯

is taking place in a membrane reactor. Pure A enters the reactor, and B diffuses out through the membrane. Unfortunately, a small amount of the reactant A also diffuses through the membrane.

(a) Plot and analyze the flow rates of A, B, and C and the conversion X down the reactor, as well as

the flow rates of A and B through the membrane.

(b) Next, compare the conversion profiles in a conventional PFR with those of a membrane reactor

from part (a). What generalizations can you make?

(c) Would the conversion of A be greater or smaller if C were diffusing out instead of B?

(d) Discuss qualitatively how your curves would change if the temperature were increased signifi-

cantly or decreased significantly for an exothermic reaction. Repeat the discussion for an endot- hermic reaction.

Additional information:

k = 10 min^-1
KC = 0.01 mol^2/dm^6

kCA = 1 min^-1
kCB = 40 min^-1

FAO = 100 mol/min

Vo = 100 dm^3/min

Vreactor = 20 dm^3
FA0 100 mol/min v0 100 dm3/min