Abstract
In this research paper the residence time distribution (RTD) was monitored for a range of fluid oscillation, frequency, amplitude and flow rate in two oscillatory flow reactors (OFR) provided with 2D smooth periodic constrictions (2D-SPC) with different designs. It was studied the axial liquid dispersion using axial dispersion model and the mixing efficiency using tank-in-series model for continuous mode. Two cases, with and without fluid oscillation, were studied and determined the optimum conditions to ensure a close plug flow, an efficient mixing and a low axial liquid dispersion. The optimum operation conditions for the two 2D-SPC designs were found. Moreover, the effect of open cross-sectional area (a) on mixing and axial dispersion was also investigated. For low cross-sectional area values the mixing is higher. It was observed that fluid oscillation increases the mixing intensity even at lower flow rates, and the axial dispersion increases as the flow rate increases.
Highlights
In the pharmaceutical industry it is crucial to acquire an efficient mixing, as this influence the reaction yield, mass and heat transfer, as well as the quality of the final product (Ferreira, Teixeira, and Rocha 2015)
The residence time distribution (RTD) measurements were performed at different experimental conditions
A continuous oscillatory flow reactor provided with 2D smooth periodic constrictions was developed for potential application in pharmaceutical industry
Summary
In the pharmaceutical industry it is crucial to acquire an efficient mixing, as this influence the reaction yield, mass and heat transfer, as well as the quality of the final product (Ferreira, Teixeira, and Rocha 2015). There are still some problems related with bad mixing leading to high costs. It has been estimated that more than 600 million dollars are lost in the processes of pharmaceutical industry related with bad mixing (Paul, Atiemo-Obeng, and Kresta 2004). In order to overcome these difficulties, studies have been carried out on the development of new reactors, such as the oscillatory flow reactors (OFR). Since 1980s, the studies concerning the OFR increase remarkably, leading to a new constrictions designs, the smooth periodic constrictions (SPC) represented in Figure 1 (Mcglone et al 2015)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
