THE KINETICS OF COMPLEX CATALYTIC REACTIONS

The mathematical and statistical tools for parameter estimation and model discrimination in complex kinetic models are briefly reviewed. Hougen-Watson type rate equations are extended to simultaneous reactions and to situations in which the active site concentration varies through the reactor as a consequence of changes in the gas phase composition. Examples are given of the kinetic modeling of processes based upon complex feedstocks. Lumping of components and reactions, as well as partitioning of the networks are illustrated. The benefit of expressing rates in terms of truly elementary mechanisms is discussed.