CFD simulation for reduction of pyrolusite in fluidized beds

In this study, a CFD model coupled with heterogeneous flow structure, mass transfer equations, and chemical reaction kinetics is established to forecast the pyrolusite reduction reaction behavior. Compared with the previous studies which ignore the volume change of solids phase, the influence of volume shrinkage on reaction and flow behavior is explored in this research. Volume shrinkage of pyrolusite is proved to be non-negligible in predicting the conversion rate. The negligence of volume shrinkage leads to the overestimation of conversion rate for its inaccurate estimation of surface area for reaction. Besides, the influence of volume shrinkage on the reaction is found smaller in the scaled-up reactor.