🎓 Lesson 14
D5
CSTR Multiplicity and Thermal Runaway Fundamentals
A CSTR can behave in more than one stable way under the same operating conditions, and if not carefully controlled, it can suddenly overheat and become dangerous — like a pot boiling over when you forget to watch it.
🎯 Learning Objectives
- ✓ Calculate steady-state temperatures and conversion levels for an exothermic CSTR using energy and mole balance equations
- ✓ Analyze reactor stability by constructing and interpreting ignition-extinction curves
- ✓ Design coolant temperature and flow rate setpoints to avoid the multiplicity region and ensure single, safe operation
- ✓ Explain the physical origin of multiple steady states using graphical intersection of reaction rate and heat removal curves
- ✓ Apply dimensionless parameters (e.g., Damköhler number, Semenov number) to assess thermal safety margins