Hydrodynamics of pulsed sieve-plate extraction columns

This paper presents a review of some hydrodynamic parameters in pulsed sieve-plate extraction columns. The hydrodynamic parameters in liquid-liquid systems in these columns were analyzed regarding the effects of operating and geometrical parameters. The values of Sauter mean drop diameter were function of the existing work flow regimes in the column device defined as mixer-settler, emulsion and dispersion regimes. It was concluded that the dispersed-phase holdup was a function of the mean drop diameter and dispersed-phase superficial velocity. An increase in the dispersed-phase holdup induced an increase in the interface area in the liquid-liquid system. Knowledge of the value of the dispersed-phase holdup can be used for calculation of the volumetric mass transfer coefficient, one of the important factor in the design of the column extractor. It was concluded that the increase in the dispersed-phase superficial velocity is causing a decrease in axial dispersion. On the other hand, an increase in the continuous-phase superficial velocity is causing the increase in the axial dispersion coefficient. Some of the empirical equations proposed in literature for calculations of the hydrodynamic parameters were presented. These correlations, derived for determination of the hydrodynamic parameters in pulsed sieve-plate extraction columns, can be used for the design of these liquid-liquid extraction columns.