Dynamics of the gas phase in bubble columns

Abstract

The conventional two-bubble-class model for bubble column reactors has been modified to account for interactions between the two bubble classes. It is shown that the modified model is more consistent with the observed residence time distribution in the gas phase than the conventional model. The results indicate that there is an intensive cross-mixing between the bubble phases. This study also reveals that the modified two-bubble-class model cannot be distinguished from the single-bubble-class model solely on the basis of the residence time distribution.

Comparison of the single‐bubble‐class and modified two‐bubble‐class models of bubble column reactors

“…We consider the following test conditions to strike equivalence among the parameters of the models: (i) Identical exit age distribution: The MTBC and SBC models should predict identical exit age distribution in the gas phase in the absence of mass transfer. For this to happen, it is necessary that (Modak et al [16]) (39) (ii) Identical rates of absorption: We consider a situation in which a sparingly soluble solute gas is absorbed in liquid, in the absence of a chemical reaction. Under this condition the reduction in the partial pressure of the solute gas between inlet and outlet of the reactor is negligibly small.…”