Film model approximation for multicomponent adsorption

An approximate rate equation based on a film-model representation of diffusional mass transfer is developed to describe the kinetics of multicomponent adsorption. The model describes mass transfer as a pseudo-steady state diffusion process through a flat film of thickness equal to one fifth of the particle radius. Starting with an irreversible thermodynamics description of multicomponent diffusion, the flux relationships are integrated across the film yielding analytical expressions for the rate of mass transfer in a multicomponent adsorption system, when adsorption equilibria are described by the extended Langmuir isotherm. The new approximate rate equation can be conveniently used in the numerical simulation of adsorption systems with concentration-dependent micropore or surface diffusivity, and describes the effects of diffusional flux coupling. Results of accuracy comparable with that obtained when using the classical linear-driving-force approximation for systems with constant diffusivities are obtained with this new rate equation for both batch and fixed-bed adsorption calculations. A generalization of the approach based on the Gibbs adsorption isotherm describes mass transfer rates in terms of the spreading-pressure gradient and provides an extension to other multicomponent isotherm forms.