Multiphysics simulation for microwave-assisted continuous flow in a tube flow reactor with a mode stirrer

Abstract The combination of microwave intensification technology and flow chemistry in food processing can increase the yield and shorten the process reaction time and is a very innovative technology. The key to its application lies in obtaining the electromagnetic heat transfer mechanism and key influencing factors between them. Thus, a microwave-assisted continuous flow reactor structured with a rectangular cavity, serpentine-shaped tube and mode stirrer is designed and investigated by using a multiphysics coupling calculation method. The electromagnetic, flow and heat transfer characteristics in these reactors are simulated and discussed to explore the influence of reactor parameters on the heating effect and heating uniformity. The work in this paper will be helpful for understanding electromagnetic heat transfer in tube flow reactors coupled with microwave heating and mode stirring for food processing.