The prediction of mass transfer parameters for fluidized RIC operations

Abstract

Ion exchange resins have found increasing application in the metallurgical sector over the last few decades through resin-in-column (RIC) technology. These processes are usually simulated by using some form of resistance model. Furthermore, of these, a dual resistance approach incorporating both film and pore-wall diffusion is the most popular and widely used technique for simulations involving ion exchange and adsorption processes. Film mass transfer is influenced by external factors including liquid turbulence and liquid viscosity that could result in a change in this parameter when evaluated in batch and column configurations. In this study it is postulated that, provided the resin particles are in complete suspension or fully fluidized, it will be at its terminal settling velocity relative to the fluid. Under these conditions film mass transport should be similar in batch and RIC operations. It has been shown that this is indeed the case with mass transport parameters evaluated in batch configuration applied with success to fluidized RIC operations.