229/33310–15FE Reference Handbook 10.4 · Environmental · Reactors

Handbook formula

PFR First-Order Design Time

Integrated first-order design equation for an ideal plug-flow reactor (or a batch reactor with t in place of space time). For 90% removal C/C0 = 0.10 and t = 2.303/k. A single CMFR needs t = (C0/C − 1)/k, which is longer for the same conversion when the reaction order is positive.

(d)
Space time V/Q
(1/d)
First-order rate constant
(mg/L)
Effluent concentration
(mg/L)
Influent concentration

Step-by-step solved example

First-order PFR, 90% removal, k = 0.50 d⁻¹. Find t.

Q, C₀CV
Plug-flow: no mixing in the flow direction; t = −ln(C/C0)/k for first order.
  1. 1. Fraction remaining

    C/C0 = 0.10; ln(C/C0) = ln(0.10) = −2.303.

  2. 2. Time

    t = −(1/k) ln(C/C0) = −(1/0.50)×(−2.303) = 4.61 d.

Answer: t = 4.61 d

10 practice questions

0/10 correct

1.50% removal in a first-order PFR needs kt =

2.k = 0.20 d⁻¹, 50% removal. t =

3.99% removal: t =

4.For the same k and 90% removal, a single CMFR needs t =

5.C = C0 e^{−kt} is also the integrated law for a

6.k = 0.40 d⁻¹, C/C0 = 0.20. t =

7.Tanks-in-series (N CMFRs) approach a PFR as N

8.This design t assumes the rate is

9.If k is doubled, PFR volume for the same Q and conversion

10.A dispersion number → 0 in an open-channel contactor means it behaves like a