Resumen de Porous media models for packed bed characterization
In this chapter models are discussed that have been used in the literature to predict the effect of biomass accumulation on the pressure drop of a biofilter. The models differ by the assumptions that they are based on, for example, particle contact and shape as well as biofilm and particle size distribution. Only momentum transport is considered and the models classified as either empirical or analytical. All the empirical models considered are modified versions of the well-known Ergun equation, widely used in the field of granular porous media. The customary procedure is to adapt the empirical coefficients or introduce additional correction factors through curve-fitting procedures. The models are validated against experimental data available in the literature. The user-friendliness of the models is discussed in terms of the number of measured input parameters and compared based on their predictive capabilities.
