Research Summary: Higher mass transfer rates can be achieved in packed bed rotary devices where the liquid attains an acceleration many times that due to gravity. There are potential commercial applications in many fields. The objective of the proposed research is to provide a rational basis for the scaleup, operation and design of rotary devices for gas-liquid contacting. To accomplish this goal, the shape, structure, velocity profile and stability of liquid films in rotors of readily characterizable solid surfaces is first examined. The penetration model or the convection-diffusion model is then adapted to develop suitable expressions for the mass transfer coefficients, including a statistical model for random distribution of solid surfaces. This provides a rational basis for scaleup. Liquid holdup and texture in the rotating packed beds is measured by a modified electrical conductivity method thereby providing additional information on the characteristics of liquid film flow in these devices. Scientific Novelty. The research has two novel features, (1) systematic use of sound fundamental knowledge generated in equipment of known geometry to generate design procedures for equipment which are otherwise difficult to characterize, (2) development of a modified electric conductivity method for measurement of liquid-up and texture in rotating equipment. Such measurements are normally difficult. Practical and Technical Impact. The work will provide a firm basis for design and thereby increase potential commercial applications of this device. It is expected that the device would find application in high purity specialty chemicals which cannot be often readily produced in traditional equipment. Another potential application is in monomer stripping in polymerizations. Moreover, as one looks into the future, there is a need to develop equipment for gas-liquid contacting in outer space under reduced or zero gravity environment. The proposed research will facilitate the realization of many of the above possibilities.
