The objectives of this research are: (1) to study the fluid mechanics and acoustical nature of gas dispersion in agitated tanks using hydrophones to record sound spectra; and (2) to determine the relationship between the mass transfer coefficient, kla, and the sound spectra signatures of the gas dispersion. Further, the actual mechanism of sound production and effects of scale, impeller geometry and distributor geometry will be investigated and related to the gas dispersion mechanics. Standard techniques will be used in the work to obtain the sound spectra and kla data. The research is to develop an online measurement technique to monitor and optimize mass transfer in aerated, agitated tanks.
