Process intensification through the application of centrifugal field: An experimental study of absorption processes using the falling film microreactor

Abstract

In this work, liquid and gas side mass transfer characteristics were investigated within a centrifugal field using the falling film microreactor (FFMR). Enhancement in mass transfer rates were assessed by relating the absorption efficiency of the processes conducted within the centrifugal field to those in which liquid flows are purely-driven by gravity. The liquid side rotational mass transfer coefficients (kL) determined were considerably higher than those without rotation. Similarly, relative increase in rotational gas side mass transfer coefficient (kG) was also significantly high (up to 42%).The liquid side experimental data were well predicted by the modified correlation (a power law equation modified to consider the effect of the applied external force, geometry of the system, hydrodynamic characteristics and physical properties of the fluids employed) at lower rotational speed but deviated considerably at higher rotational speeds while, the gas side experimental data were well predicted by the correlation.