Reaction Control by Thermal and Reactant Fluxes

The authors simulated a plug-flow reactor that permitted chemical and heat flux to be added through the sidewall of the reactor, along its length. The governing equations were essentially those of a membrane reactor with a homogeneously-catalysed reaction, and controllable fluxes as functions of position. 

Although this work was not specifically performed for a membrane reactor, the implications are clear. If the complex chemistry is understood, a membrane reactor with controlled heating may be applied to favor certain reaction pathways and desired products in other systems of low yields. The practical problems of controlling both energy and species fluxes simultaneously may be formidable however, with current progress in membrane pore modification techniques, there is reason for optimism. 

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