Modelling and simulating a batch reactor used in kerosene oxidation desulphurization

Abstract

Petroleum fractions contain harmful sulphur compounds that cause corrosion in engines and emit SO₂, contributing to acid rain. The traditional method of removing sulphur from fuels is catalytic hydrodesulphurisation, but this is expensive This paper presents a maths model for the oxidation desulphurisation of kerosene. The model and simulation process are important as they provide a better understanding of the process. The model was based on experimental results and calculated using gPROMS software.  The optimal kinetic parameters were activation energy 19.13650 kJ/mol, pre-exponential factor 2163.56 (wt)^-0.66530. min^-1 and reaction order 1.66530. These parameters were used to find conditions for high conversion (≥ 99.9%). These optimum reaction conditions were a reaction temperature of 379.4 ^oK and a reaction time of 120 min. A scale-up to a batch reactor was carried out using these optimal parameters and conditions. The results showed that the best reactor size is 1 m diameter.