Polyethylene Fluidized Bed Reactor Fouling Due to Electrostatic Charging

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One major problem in gas-solid fluidized bed reactors is particle agglomeration and reactor wall fouling, which is 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 gas-solid fluidized bed 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. Polyethylene is used substantially in our daily lives including packaging, adhesives, toys, building and construction (e.g., wires/cables), etc. Since 2006, I have set up two fluidization laboratories at the University of Ottawa, Chemical and Biological Engineering Department that consist of two pilot plant, one atmospheric and high-pressure, fluidization systems, and have 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 been successful in developing a new and unique online electrostatic charge measurement technique that has been implemented in both fluidization systems. The focus of the proposed research is to conduct a comprehensive study of electrostatic charging mechanisms of polyethylene. Specifically the role of the catalyst particles that are pneumatically conveyed into the polyethylene reactors on the extent of charge generation and reactor fouling will be studied.