In chemical engineering, a reactor is a vessel or a system in which a chemical reaction takes place. Reactors are used to convert reactants into products, which may have different chemical, physical, or biological properties.
There are several types of reactors used in chemical engineering, including batch reactors, continuous stirred-tank reactors (CSTRs), plug flow reactors (PFRs), and fluidized bed reactors (FBRs). The choice of reactor depends on the specific requirements of the reaction, such as the reaction kinetics, reaction rate, temperature, pressure, and the physical and chemical properties of the reactants and products.
Reactors are widely used in various industries, such as petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, food, and water treatment, among others. The design and operation of reactors are critical in ensuring optimal reaction conditions, product quality, and process efficiency.