Several factors can lead to flow restriction in catalytic systems:
1. Catalyst Fouling: Over time, catalysts can become fouled with by-products or impurities, leading to blockages. 2. Channeling: In packed bed reactors, irregular packing or settling can cause reactants to flow through preferred paths, reducing effective contact with the catalyst. 3. Pressure Drop: High pressure drops across the reactor can indicate flow restriction, often due to catalyst particle size, shape, or packing density. 4. Reactor Design: Poor design choices, such as inadequate spacing between catalyst particles, can lead to restricted flow.
