An alternative procedure for modeling of Knudsen flow and surface diffusion

Abstract

An alternative procedure for the calculation of impingement rate distribution and simultaneously the transmission probability in pores under Knudsen diffusion conditions is introduced. It is based on a combination of the finite difference method and a projection approach. Pore entrance and exit effects, and the influence of the pore length on diffusive fluxes are investigated. Later on, it is applied for a simultaneous Knudsen and surface flow system. In the model, the equation system is built without the independent flow and adsorption-desorption equilibrium assumptions. For the conditions investigated, the results indicate that if the surface flow rate is substantial, the independent flow and adsorption equilibrium assumptions become improper estimates for the behaviour of the system. The surface and gas flow rates, the impingement rate distribution and the surface coverage behave much more complex than the characteristics found with such assumptions.