On the Use of Dual Cell Density Monoliths

Abstract

Monolith-type substrates are extensively used in automotive catalytic converters and have gained popularity in several other industrial processes. Despite their advantages over traditional unstructured catalysts, such as large surface area and low pressure drop, novel monolith configurations have not been investigated in depth. In this paper, we use a detailed computational model at the reactor scale, which considers entrance length, turbulence dissipation and internal diffusion limitations, to investigate the impact of using a dual cell substrate on conversion efficiency, pressure drop, and flow distribution. The substrate is divided into two concentric regions, one at its core and one at its periphery, and a different cell density is given to each part. According to the results, a difference of 40% in apparent permeability is sufficient to lead to a large flow maldistribution, which impacts conversion efficiency and pressure drop. The two mentioned variables show a positive or negative correlation depending on what part of the substrate—core or ring—has the highest permeability. This and other results contribute relevant evidence for further monolith optimization.