Module 04

Reaction Engineering

Reactors are just balance equations with a generation term that isn’t zero.

Conceptual Spine

The design equation for every reactor is the general balance applied to moles.

Lessons

01
Reaction Rate and Rate Laws

r = k f(C)

Soon
02
The Batch Reactor

dN/dt = rV

Soon
03
The CSTR: Perfect Mixing

Steady-state, well-mixed

Soon
04
The PFR: Plug Flow

No axial mixing

Soon
05
Sizing and Comparing Reactors

Levenspiel plots

Soon
06
Multiple Reactions: Selectivity

Parallel and series reactions

Soon
07
Temperature Effects: Arrhenius

k = A·exp(−Ea/RT)

Soon
08
Non-Ideal Flow: RTD Theory

E(t), F(t), dispersion

Soon
09
Heterogeneous Catalysis

Langmuir-Hinshelwood

Soon

Common confusions this module addresses

  • ×Not connecting reactor design equations back to the general balance
  • ×Confusing conversion with selectivity
  • ×Thinking CSTR and PFR differences are about geometry rather than mixing
← Module 03Module 05 →

Ready to build the foundation?

One course. Five modules. 45+ lessons covering the conceptual core of chemical engineering. Lifetime access, including all future content additions.

Enroll — $997

30-day refund policy · No subscription · Lifetime access