Effects of Liquid Property Parameters on Spout Deflection in a Liquid-Containing Gas–Solid Spouted Bed Reactor: Quantitative Characterization and Action Mechanism

Abstract

Spout deflection is commonly observed in liquid-containing gas–solid spouted bed reactors (LC-GSSBRs) and can hinder their industrial application. However, the underlying mechanism of spout deflection remains insufficiently understood. To address this gap, the computational fluid dynamics-discrete element method approach is applied to investigate the effects of liquid property parameters (surface tension, liquid viscosity, and liquid content) on spout deflection. By the introduction of the particle number difference as a quantitative indicator, the liquid-induced mechanism of spout deflection is elucidated from the perspective of liquid bridge forces. The work demonstrates that surface tension is the dominant factor affecting spout deflection, which progressively weakens as the surface tension increases. In contrast, the inhibitory effect of liquid viscosity on spout deflection becomes evident only under low surface tension, primarily because surface tension suppresses the enhancing effect of viscosity on liquid bridge forces. Although the liquid content shows insignificant correlation with spout deflection, it exhibits a significant positive correlation with liquid bridge forces under high surface tension. Overall, changes in liquid property parameters influence liquid bridge forces, which, in turn, alter particle fluidization resistance and lead to distinct spout deflection behaviors under varying operating conditions. This work comprehensively elucidates the action mechanism of liquid property parameters on spout deflection, providing guidance for further investigation into the deflection mechanism and offering important insights for regulating spout deflection.