For the reaction and data in Problem P6-4B, we now consider the case when the reaction is reversible with K_C = 0.025 dm⁶/mol² and the reaction is carried out at 300 K in a membrane reactor where C₂H₆ is diffusing out. The membrane transport coefficient is k_C = 0.08 s^–1.
a. What is the equilibrium conversion and what is the exit conversion in a conventional PFR?
b. Plot and analyze the conversion and molar flow rates in the membrane reactor as a function of reactor volume up to the point where 80% conversion of di-tert-butyl peroxide is achieved. Note any maxima in the flow rates.

Problem P6-4B

The elementary gas-phase reaction
(CH3)3COOC(CH3)3 → C2H6 + 2CH3COCH3
A → B + 2C
is carried out isothermally at 400 K in a flow reactor with no pressure drop. The specific reaction rate at 50°C is 10^–4 min^–1 (from pericosity data) and the activation energy is 85 kJ/mol. Pure di-tert-butyl peroxide enters the reactor at 10 atm and 127°C and a molar flow rate of 2.5 mol/min, that is, F_A = 2.5 mol/min.
a. Use the algorithm for molar flow rates to formulate and solve the problem. Plot FA, FB, FC, and then X as a function of plug-flow reactor volume and space time to achieve 90% conversion.
b. Calculate the plug-flow volume and space time for a CSTR for 90% conversion.