Several factors can contribute to bypassing, including:
Poor Reactor Design: If the reactor is not designed to ensure uniform flow distribution, some reactants may bypass the catalyst. Channeling: In packed bed reactors, uneven packing or settling of the catalyst can create channels where reactants flow through without proper contact with the catalyst. Flow Maldistribution: Uneven distribution of the reactant stream can lead to areas where the catalyst is underutilized. Catalyst Deactivation: Over time, catalysts can lose their activity due to fouling, sintering, or poisoning, creating inactive regions within the reactor.
