mass transfer in multiphase systems - Greenleaf University

MASS TRANSFER IN MULTIPHASE SYSTEMS: VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUND
REMOVAL IN THREE-PHASE SYSTEMS
1.4 Statement of Potential Significance
The results are highly significant for past and future projects since it provides a
theoretical basis and tools for empirical predictions at cleanup sites having sludge’s with VOCs
needing remediation. There is really no predictability in any of the literature that was extensively
investigated during the projects this dissertation is based on. Management and stakeholders
would like to minimize risk and uncertainty in remediation work. The results herein can provide
preliminary scoping and detailed design quantification to limit risk and liabilities.
1.5 Theoretical Foundation and Conceptual Framework
The models rely on previous work, especially with liquid-gas batch systems where
agitators are used in conjunction with specially designed gas dissipation devices referred to as
sparge rings. The theoretical design was based on this along industry empirical knowledge along
with the theoretical equations developed as part of the projects.
1.6 Summary of Methodology
The methodology is based on the premises of chemical engineering mass transfer and
fluid mechanics. The concepts of inter-phase transfer are extended to include the properties of
the solid and mass transfer therein. The theoretical extension of this is exciting and additional
work in this area would be very welcome. The system 1 air contacting was complicated by the
tank geometry, stakeholders wanted to perform operations within the tanks. This required special
addition of air injection nozzles, cameras, and mechanical manipulation equipment to enable gassolid-liquid
suspension and contacting.
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