Several types of advanced reactor designs have been developed to address various challenges in catalysis. Some of the most notable include:
Microreactors: These are small-scale reactors that provide high surface-area-to-volume ratios, enabling precise control over reaction conditions and rapid heat and mass transfer. Multiphase Reactors: These reactors facilitate reactions between different phases (e.g., gas-liquid, gas-solid) and often employ advanced mixing and separation techniques to enhance reaction rates. Membrane Reactors: These combine reaction and separation in a single unit, using selective membranes to remove products or by-products continuously, which can shift equilibrium and improve yields. Fluidized Bed Reactors: These reactors use a fluidized bed of catalyst particles to ensure uniform temperature distribution and efficient contact between reactants and catalysts.
