Mathematical model of the pyrolysis of bitumen-impregnated sandstone particles. 1. Diffusion dominant transport regime

A mathematical model of the pyrolysis of bitumen-impregnated sandstone particles heated to temperatures above 600 K has been developed. The model assumes that diffusion is the dominant transport mechanism at these temperatures (> 600 K). The governing equations describing diffusion and chemical reaction within the tar sand particles were solved analytically using a finite integral transform technique. The model predicts the final distribution of products in the bulk fluid phase and the intraparticle concentration profiles for the various products as a function of time.