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Removal of Solid Organic Films from Rotating Disks Using Emulsion Cleaners
1Department of Chemical Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27695-7905
Journal of Colloid and Interface Science
|August 5, 2000
Summary
Phenanthrene film removal from surfaces is primarily achieved by solid detachment, not dissolution. Emulsions containing d-limonene and Tween 20 facilitate this process by penetrating the film and reducing adhesion.
Area of Science:
- Physical Chemistry
- Surface Science
- Colloid and Surface Chemistry
Background:
- Solid organic films pose challenges in removal processes.
- Understanding removal mechanisms is crucial for industrial applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the removal rate and mechanism of a solid phenanthrene film from a rotating disk surface.
- To analyze the role of emulsions containing water, Tween 20, and d-limonene in film removal.
Main Methods:
- Measurements of phenanthrene removal rates using rotating disk experiments.
- Analysis of initial solubilization rates using two distinct mass transfer models.
- Modeling the emulsion as both homogeneous and considering finite droplet size.
Main Results:
- Phenanthrene removal is dominated by solid film detachment (approximately 90%).
- Initial removal involves phenanthrene uptake into emulsion drops and organic phase penetration.
- The organic phase (d-limonene) diminishes the adhesive force, leading to detachment.
Conclusions:
- Solid detachment is the primary mechanism for phenanthrene film removal.
- Emulsion properties and organic phase flux significantly influence removal efficiency and detachment time.
- Mass transfer models provide insights into the solubilization and removal dynamics.

