Project Details
Development of miniature measuring cells for the characterization and efficient design of structured packing columns based on an elementary cell model.
Subject Area
Chemical and Thermal Process Engineering
Term
from 2014 to 2019
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 259904464
The overall goal of this research project is to represent the mass transfer dynamics of an industrial packed column on the basis of miniaturised experimental set-ups and an appropriate modelling. The miniaturised experimental set-up is to constitute the smallest feasible separation unit that allows conclusions on the mass transfer efficiency of industrial columns with consideration of the real boundary conditions. In this manner no longer a laboratory column shall be used as a laboratory basis for the design of industrial columns which principally is an extremely reduced representation of an industrial apparatus. The approach proposed here therefore represents a fundamental paradigmatic change in the industrial and scientific common practice and needs to be profoundly investigated. The dynamics of a packed column can be subdivided into fluid mechanic aspects and mass transfer characteristics. This project is a first step where the fluid dynamic behaviour of the packing is to be characterised according to the overall methodologic concept. Later in a subsequent investigation project - based on the fluid dynamic results - consequently an extension by the mass transfer behavior has to take place. With the development of the afore-described miniaturized experimental set-up a new technology platform would be created within thermal separation engineering, which allows the decided adjustment, observation and determination of different parameters (mass transport resistances, contact angles, surface structures, etc.) and therefore perspectively is of utmost interest even beyond the mere scope of scale-up problems.
DFG Programme
Research Grants