FCCU transition-probability model

The adequacy of the use of transition-probability matrices for modelling fluidised catalyst cracker unit emissions was investigated. A number of different-sized matrices that modelled the processes of attrition and agglomeration were used, and it was found that an 8×8 sized matrix provided the best results. The processes of attrition within the matrix were studied, indicating an oscillatory attrition curve, and may suggest a preferred attrition size range. Studies on the effects that the agglomeration parameters had on the model indicated that, as time and the size of the matrix increased, agglomeration became more important. The results of the modelling were compared with laboratory experiments, and indicated very good agreement between the model outputs and the observed emissions.