Kinetic modeling of naphtha catalytic reforming reactions

In this work a kinetic model for the naphtha catalytic reforming process is presented. The model utilizes lumped mathematical representation of the reactions that take place, which are written in terms of isomers of the same nature. These groups range from 1 to 11 atoms of carbon for paraffins, and from 6 to 11 carbon atoms for naphthenes and aromatics. The cyclohexane formation via methylcyclopentane isomerization and paraffins isomerization reactions were considered in the model. Additionally, an Arrhenius-type variation was added to the model in order to include the effect of pressure and temperature on the rate constants. The kinetic parameters values were estimated using experimental information obtained in a fixed-bed pilot plant. The pilot reactor was loaded with different amounts of catalyst in order to simulate a series of three reforming reactors. The reformate composition calculated with the proposed model agrees very well with experimental information.