The factors affecting phase separation of liquid dispersion are discussed in order to identify the parameters controlling the coalescence processes occurring in primary and secondary dispersions. Models for the estimation of wedge length and band thickness in gravity settlers are reviewed, and the trends in future studies in the design and analysis of this type of equipment introduced. The phase separation of dispersions in packed beds is also considered, and the effects of the properties of the packing and the system on the coalescence processes occurring in the packing analysed. The importance of the system properties, packing voidage and the exit drop mechanism on the design of a packing for a phase separation operation are emphasised. Some recent results explaining the increased coalescence rate at the junction between a high energy and low energy surface are presented. In addition, some recent work in these laboratories on the separation of secondary dispersions are also presented.

The factors affecting phase separation of liquid dispersion are discussed in order to identify the parameters controlling the coalescence processes occurring in primary and secondary dispersions. Models for the estimation of wedge length and band thickness in gravity settlers are reviewed, and the trends in future studies in the design and analysis of this type of equipment introduced. The phase separation of dispersions in packed beds is also considered, and the effects of the properties of the packing and the system on the coalescence processes occurring in the packing analysed. The importance of the system properties, packing voidage and the exit drop mechanism on the design of a packing for a phase separation operation are emphasised. Some recent results explaining the increased coalescence rate at the junction between a high energy and low energy surface are presented. In addition, some recent work in these laboratories on the separation of secondary dispersions are also presented.

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