Investigation of reactor fouling due to electrostatics in high-pressure gas-solid fluidized beds

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One major problem in gas-solid fluidization reactors is particle agglomeration and reactor wall fouling, which has been known to be as a result of generation of electrostatic charges due to vigorous mixing of solid particles in such systems. The significant impact of this phenomenon has been reported in industries such as polymer, and oil and gas. In polyethylene reactors, electrostatic adhesion due to highly charged particles results in formation of undesired polymer sheets on the reactor wall, leading to frequent process shut downs for reactor clean up, loss of production; and thus, significant economic losses. Since 2006, I have set up a laboratory at the University of Ottawa, Chemical and Biological Engineering Department that consist of a pilot plant atmospheric fluidization facility, and established an extensive experimental program to gain a better understanding of the reactor wall fouling in gas-solid fluidized beds with specific application in polyethylene production. My research team has already successfully developed and tested a new and unique online electrostatic charge measurement technique.