Simulation of a multicomponent extraction process by a nonequilibrium stage model incorporating a drop population model

Abstract

A nonequilibrium stage model has been developed for the simulation of a countercurrent multicomponent extraction process. A drop population model, applied to the description of the hydrodynamics of a liquid-liquid extraction column, allows to split the drop spectrum into different drop classes. Mass balances relative to the continuous phase and to every drop class of the dispersed phase lead with the transfer rate equations to the prediction of the concentration profiles along the column. The use of empirical correction factors like efficiencies or HETPs is completely avoided. Integrated in the mass balances are the so called production terms which take into account the effects of the fundamental mechanisms: drop breakage, transport and interdrop coalescence.