Mathematical simulation of catalytic paste flow in a ram extruder
A mathematical model was developed for the stage of catalyst paste preparation. The mathematical model allows the calculation of solvate film thickness and volume content of the solid phase at any moment of time. Functional dependencies were found, which correlated the solvate film thickness and volume content of the solid phase with the plastic strength and viscosity of catalyst pastes. A range of plastic strength was determined, which ensures the optimum forming properties of the pastes. The mathematical model allowed the determination of the concentrations of the components of the continuous and dispersed phases, which ensured the optimum paste forming rheological properties, which, in turn, influence the end properties of an a-FezOs catalyst. The significant role of the solvate film thickness in the forming properties of pastes was demonstrated.