Simulation of Turbulent Coalescence and Breakage of Bubbles and Droplets in the Presence of Surfactants, Salts, and Contaminants

Abstract

Abstract The accurate prediction of the size distribution in liquid–liquid or gas–liquid turbulent dispersions is of fundamental relevance in many industrial applications. The distribution can be predicted with computational fluid dynamics coupled with population balance models (PBM). PBM needs, in turn, suitable models to account for droplet and bubble coalescence and breakage. In this work a critical analysis of the most commonly employed breakage and coalescence kernels is performed. In particular, the presence of contaminants on breakage and coalescence rates is analyzed and the appropriate modifications on the kernels are discussed. Furthermore, the most important models for the daughter size distribution are reviewed. Eventually, a comparison among the most employed breakage and coalescence model was carried out.