RSA CE&C 2015-2021 Group descriptions

8 reaction and heat management in a single multifunctional device, effectively creating synergy between different process steps. Our approach consists of a combination of state-of-the-art numerical models, advanced (non-invasive) experimental techniques and the experimental demonstration of novel reactor concepts (proof of concept). In our research, we exploit the combination of experiments and modeling to advance our knowledge. We recognize the following subdivisions in our research themes: 1. Integration of reaction and separation The development of innovative reactor concepts that integrate reaction and separation allows us to exploit the alleviation of thermodynamic restrictions for faster, cleaner and more efficient production while keeping the number of unit operations required in a process to a minimum. Key topics include packed bed and fluidized bed membrane reactors, chemical looping processes and sorption-enhanced processes or hybrid combinations of these. 2. Advanced heat integration The second research topic focuses on the improved heat management of reactors. We study the integration of endothermic and exothermic reactions in a single reactor to the benefit of both reactions. We also target the efficient (re-)use of hot and cold duty in processes and advanced reactor cooling mechanisms. In recent years, we have extended our research towards the integration of inductive and direct electrical heating. 3. Fundamental understanding of integrated multiphase reactors The third research topic focuses on an improved understanding of the prevailing phenomena in multi-phase reactors. We redefine the state of the art by developing novel non-invasive experimental techniques as well as numerical models (ranging from detailed computational fluid dynamics to coarse-grained reactor models) of integrated multiphase equipment/ reactors.We focus on the extension to actual process conditions, especially high-temperature and reactive conditions combined with accurate hydrodynamic descriptions. With these detailed investigations, we also push the boundaries on the development, improvement and techno-economic assessment of novel multiphase multifunctional reactors. Major accomplishments in the evaluation period Research quality and scientific relevance Our most significant results in the period 2015-2021 are summarized below, covering the three main research themes: 1. Integration of reaction and separation Packed bed and fluidized membrane reactor concepts have been extensively researched in our group for a large variety of reactions, such as (ultra-pure) hydrogen production, syngas production, oxidative dehydrogenations and partial oxidations, particularly focusing on the integration of Pd-based thin-film ceramic or metallic-supported membranes and oxygen-permselective (supported) perovskite membranes. Large improvements in reactant conversion and product yields as well as improved heat management and integrated CO 2 capture have been realized for many different applications, both with modeling and with experimental demonstration. Moreover, we have developed numerical reactor models ranging from phenomenological models to CFD models to quantitatively predict the performance of the integrated reactors. Particularly worthwhile mentioning is the development of both Euler-Euler and Euler-Lagrange-type models with which we have elucidated and quantified the effects of (multiple) membrane insertion and gas extraction via the membranes immersed in fluidized beds regarding the extent of concentration polarization and the effect on the fluidization behavior.