Skarstrom Documentation

Skarstrom is a finite-volume adsorption process simulator for pressure and temperature swing adsorption systems. The software implements a one-dimensional formulation of packed bed adsorption with support for multi-component systems, non-linear isotherms, and coupled heat and mass transfer.

Capabilities

Skarstrom provides comprehensive simulation capabilities for adsorption process design and analysis:

• Cyclic Processes: Pressure swing adsorption (PSA), temperature swing adsorption (TSA), and vacuum swing adsorption (VSA)
• Multi-layer Beds: Model heterogeneous packed beds with multiple adsorbents and properties
• Transport Phenomena: Incorporate mass transfer resistances, axial dispersion, and heat effects
• Isotherm Models: Extended Langmuir, Sips, Toth, and Dual-Site Langmuir models with temperature dependence
• Kinetic Models: Linear driving force (LDF) and solid diffusion models
• Process Analysis: Breakthrough curves, concentration profiles, and cycle performance metrics

Documentation Structure

• Equations: Governing equations, discretization schemes, and numerical methods
• Components: Isotherm models, kinetic models, and thermodynamic relationships
• Examples: Validation cases and engineering applications

Audience

This documentation is intended for:

• Process engineers designing adsorption systems for gas separation applications
• Researchers developing and validating adsorption process models
• Engineering students studying mass transfer and separation processes

Getting Started

New users should begin with:

1. Review the equations to understand the numerical approach and assumptions
2. Examine the components to familiarize yourself with available models
3. Work through the examples to understand typical workflows