A modified Crank-Nicolson technique with non-equidistant space steps

Abstract

A finite difference method with non-equidistant space steps, based upon the Crank-Nicolson technique is presented. Its prime feature is the automatic positioning of axial grid points at required positions. Thus reducing considerably the total number of grid points and hence the amount of computer time. The method is demonstrated for a number of examples of tubular reactor calculations. It proves to be well suited for the solution of all kinds of diffusion type models, especially if steep gradients or moving profiles occur, and can be used even on moderate size process computers.