Continuous Stirred-Tank Reactor
A Continuous Stirred-Tank Reactor (CSTR) is a type of chemical reactor where reactants are continuously fed into the tank while products are simultaneously removed. This design allows for a constant reaction environment, ensuring uniform mixing and temperature throughout the reactor. CSTRs are commonly used in industrial processes for their efficiency in handling large volumes of chemicals.
In a CSTR, the stirring mechanism keeps the contents well-mixed, which promotes consistent reaction rates. The reactor operates under steady-state conditions, meaning that the concentrations of reactants and products remain constant over time. This setup is essential in processes involving catalysts and exothermic reactions.