Modeling of Hydrodynamic Cavitation Reactors: Reflections on Present Status and Path Forward

Area of Science:

• Chemical Engineering
• Process Intensification
• Cavitation Science

Background:

• Hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) is a promising technology with diverse applications in water, energy, chemical, and materials sectors.
• HC generates intense shear, localized hot spots, and hydroxyl radicals, enabling desired physicochemical transformations.
• Despite its potential, the practical implementation of HC is hindered by a lack of suitable reactor design, optimization, and scale-up models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the current status of hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) reactor modeling.
• To critically review existing empirical, phenomenological, and multiscale modeling approaches.
• To provide insights for engineers and scientists applying HC technology.

Main Methods:

• Critical review of prevailing modeling approaches for HC reactors.
• Discussion of model application in biomass pretreatment and wastewater treatment.
• Consideration of model extension for emulsions and crystallization.

Main Results:

• Identification of modeling gaps as a key barrier to HC technology adoption.
• Evaluation of different modeling strategies based on practical application experience.
• Discussion of the applicability of current models across various industrial sectors.

Conclusions:

• Effective modeling is crucial for unlocking the full potential of hydrodynamic cavitation.
• Further research is needed to advance the fidelity of computational models for HC reactors.
• The reviewed models and discussions offer valuable guidance for applying HC in diverse fields.