Removal and renewal of catalytic coatings from lab- and pilot-scale microreactors, accompanied by life cycle assessment and cost analysis

Abstract

Microstructured reactors with a layer of heterogeneous catalyst deposited on their walls are widely recognized for their potential applications in the chemical industry. However, what is the most preferable way to handle these catalytic reactors once they are deactivated? Is it better to dispose of the reactors together with the catalytic layer or is it more preferable to remove the catalytic coating and recycle the microstructured substrate? We attempted to answer these questions in the current study by experimental investigations as well as by consideration of environmental concerns and cost evaluation to get a holistic basis for decision making.