Investigation of Multiphase Interfaces in Small Channels Using Micro CT

Abstract

For the process intensification in miniaturized equipment with multiphase systems the spatial extension and shape of the interface is crucial. However, examining interfaces on the submillimeter to the submicron range is challenging due to limited optical accessibility. Therefore, in this work, micro computed X-ray tomography was applied to visualize static multiphase interfaces in small channels. The present work also introduces an image processing procedure used for the reconstruction of the tomographic data. To demonstrate both, the information value of 3D tomographic data and its advantages compared to conventional 2D imaging techniques, the contact angle between different fluid pairings and the solid channel is determined. This work forms the foundation for the three dimensional examination of multiphase flows and mass transfer in micro and milli channels.