A Computer Vision Approach Towards Verifying CFD Models of Stirred Tank Reactors

Abstract

Mixing is one of the most important non-chemical considerations in the design of scalable processes. While non-invasive imaging approaches to deliver a quantifiable understanding of mixing dynamics are well-known, the use of imaging to verify computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models remains in its infancy. Herein, we use colorimetric reactions, and our kinetic imaging software, Kineticolor, to explore: (i) the correlation of imaging kinetics with pH probe measurements, (ii) feed point sensitivity for Villermaux-Dushman-type competing parallel reactions, and (iii) the use of experimental imaging kinetics data to qualitatively assess CFD models. We report further evidence that the influences of stirring rate, baffle presence, and feed position on mixing in a tank reactor can be informatively captured with a camcorder, and help to experimentally verify CFD models. Overall, this work advances scarce little precedent in demonstrating the use of computer vision to verify CFD models of fluid flow in tank reactors.