Selection of stationary phase particle geometry using X-ray computed tomography and computational fluid dynamics...

Area of Science:

• Chemical Engineering
• Process Engineering
• Separation Technology

Background:

• Column packing homogeneity and hydrodynamics are critical for efficient separation processes.
• Understanding particle shape effects on these parameters is essential for process optimization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine local parameters of column packing homogeneity and hydrodynamics using X-ray computed tomography (CT).
• To demonstrate a methodology for integrating CT data with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations for batch separation.
• To evaluate the impact of particle shape on separation yield.

Main Methods:

• X-ray computed tomography (CT) was employed to measure porosity and axial dispersion coefficients in columns packed with spherical and irregular particles.
• CT data was utilized to perform CFD simulations of binary mixture separation.
• Simulations were conducted for various concentrations and separation factors.

Main Results:

• Porosity and axial dispersion coefficient variations were found to be insignificant along the column axis but significant in radial distribution.
• CFD simulations indicated that spherical particles yield higher separation efficiency than irregular particles below a specific separation factor.
• The study established a correlation between packing material properties and separation performance.

Conclusions:

• The presented methodology effectively links CT measurements with CFD simulations for process design.
• Particle shape significantly influences separation yield, with spherical particles being advantageous under certain conditions.
• This approach aids in selecting optimal packing materials for specific separation tasks.