Tube fitted bulk monolithic catalyst as novel structured reactor for gas–solid reactions Original Research Article

A novel fixed-bed reactor for gas–solid catalytic reactor using bulk monolithic catalyst (BMC), the so-called tube fitted bulk monolithic catalyst (TFBMC), instead of conventional packed bed reactor is presented. From the two types of monolithic catalyst, i.e. washcoated and the one made from bulk catalyst, the first one has been widely discussed in the literature. However, there is scarce report regarding the latter. In this research we have focused on introducing, preparation and application of TFBMC. Here, the two types of monolithic catalysts are compared. The advantages and disadvantages of the proposed concept as compared with packed bed reactor are discussed. Several parameters such as material, structure and preparation method of the catalysts are investigated. As a case study the mold ability and the performance of TFBMC in Fischer Tropsch synthesis (FTS) are explained. The results indicate that the TFBMC has superior advantages over the conventional fixed-bed reactors. Furthermore, the concept employed in fabrication of TFBMC may be easily applied with minimum modification to the conventional fixed-bed reactors which results in more productivity and better performance.