Optimisation of specific absorption heat rate distribution in microwave DIC reactor

The distribution of specific absorption heat rate (SAHR) was evaluated across seven configurations of a microwave cavity in a pilot-scale DIC (Détente Instantanée Contrôlée) reactor. The configurations featured two waveguide apertures, one vertical with two wings and the other horizontal with one wing. SAHR values were calculated from temperature evolution in 2 % Agar gel samples heated by microwave radiation at 2450 MHz. The temperature was measured using eight fibre-optic sensors embedded in a Teflon cross, placed successively at eight different heights along a 306 mm-long glass tube. The experiments demonstrated that SAHR homogeneity is strongly influenced by cavity configuration, with the right vertical aperture and back-wing (R_B) configuration achieving the most uniform axial and radial distributions. Furthermore, SAHR profiles at 500 W and 1500 W exhibited consistency, displaying the scalability of the optimal configuration for diverse power levels. These findings offer valuable insights for optimizing microwave cavity designs to enhance heating uniformity and efficiency in industrial applications. • Optimized SAHR distribution in microwave DIC reactor for improved heating uniformity. • Evaluated seven cavity configurations with varying waveguide apertures and baffle wings. • Achieved most uniform SAHR with right waveguide and back-wing configuration. • Demonstrated SAHR distribution consistency at power levels of 500 W and 1500 W.