Additively Manufactured Reactors

The team develops additively manufactured reactor elements that combine targeted flow control, efficient heat transport, and mechanical stability with catalytic activity. The catalytic activity is generated in particular through the use of suitable alloys that gain their catalytic reactivity through selective leaching. Alternatively, post-functionalization of 3D-printed structures through coating and impregnation processes is also studied. In addition to experimental investigations, fluid mechanical simulations are used to optimize reactor geometries and catalyst structures. The manufactured components are tested in hydrogenation and dehydrogenation reactions, as well as for reforming and cracking reactions and for catalytic hydrogen combustion. The aim is to develop reactors with high power density and high operational stability under dynamic conditions.