Modeling the synthesis of aluminum particles by evaporation-condensation in an aerosol flow reactor

Abstract

A simple model for ultrafine particle synthesis by evaporation-condensation in aerosol reactors is presented. Neglecting the spread of the size distribution, the model accounts for particle nucleation, condensation and coagulation at non-isothermal conditions. The performance of the model with respect to the prediction of the average particle size is thoroughly evaluated by comparing it against more accurate but elaborate models in the literature. The model is applied to synthesis of aluminum powders by evaporation-condensation. It is quantitatively shown that production of powders with high specific surface area and subsequently ultrafine particle size is favored using high cooling rate, low evaporation temperature, low system pressure or low metal vapor concentration. These model predictions are in agreement with experimental data in the literature as well as with our data.