Numerical computation drives “Transport-reaction” of carbon nanotube growth processes in fluidized bed reactors—A review

In the last 30 years, the growth mechanism of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) has received significant amounts of attention. However, the exploration of data for high-temperature confined fluidized bed reactors is severely limited by experimental methods, and numerical simulation has become a necessary means for current research. This paper reviews the processes of studying the particle–fluid system in fluidized beds by using numerical simulation, going layer by layer from the selection of physical model, the modification of drag force model, the development of reaction kinetics, and the fluidized bed scale-up The ultimate goal is to achieve the mastery of the growth mechanism of CNTs by simulating the particle–fluid system. At the same time, the interaction forces between fluids and particles, the non-homogeneous flow field structure induced by bubble motion, and the complex coupled chemical reaction mechanisms make the simulation of fluidized reactors challenging. This study will be of great significance for the optimal design of the fluidized bed structure and the improvement of energy utilization and will provide an important reference for the energy-directed preparation of CNTs in the future.