What Is the Weisz-Prater Criterion for Pore Diffusion Calculator?
The Weisz-Prater criterion is a diagnostic tool in chemical reaction engineering to establish whether a catalyst pellet is operating under kinetic control or pore diffusion limitation.
How Does the Weisz-Prater Criterion for Pore Diffusion Calculator Work?
Computes the dimensionless parameter C_WP.
If C_WP < 0.3, internal concentration gradients are negligible (effectiveness factor η ≈ 1).
If C_WP > 1.0, severe pore diffusion limitation exists (η << 1).
Weisz-Prater Criterion for Pore Diffusion Calculator Formula & Variables
The core mathematical equation utilized by this calculator is expressed as:
Weisz-Prater dimensionless parameter comparing observed reaction rate to intraparticle diffusion rate.
How to Use the Weisz-Prater Criterion for Pore Diffusion Calculator
- Input experimental observed reaction rate and pellet radius.
- Enter effective diffusivity and external pellet surface concentration.
Step-by-Step Example Calculation
Porous Catalyst Pellet Diagnosis
Input Values:
Understanding Your Result
Primary output indicates C_WP parameter.
Summary displays operating regime diagnostic.
Factors That Affect the Result
- Pellet size (C_WP scales quadratically with pellet radius R_p²).
- Pore tortuosity and porosity.
When Should You Use This Calculator?
- Heterogeneous catalyst optimization, pellet sizing, and intrinsic kinetic studies.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Assumes isothermal catalyst pellet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Calculation Accuracy & Reference Note
Standard chemical reaction engineering diagnostic per Fogler and Weisz-Prater.