Abstract

This work deals with the study of the gas-liquid mass transfer, coupled with chemical reactions. The case of carbonic gas absorption in a brine of sodium carbonate and bicarbonate is investigated. It is performed in collaboration with Solvay SA. The aim of this work is to get a better understanding of this phenomenon. It would permit an optimization of the refined sodium bicarbonate production process. The basis of developed mathematical models is presented. The CO₂ absorption is coupled with several chemical reactions taking place in the liquid phase. A mathematical modelling of this coupling is first developed. The equations of the model are solved numerically, using COMSOL Multiphysics. To model the bubble-liquid mass transfer of CO₂, this diffusion-reaction model is completed by a representation of the liquid phase flow around the bubble. In order to validate experimentally each scale of modelling, two experimental devices are proposed.

Recommended Citation

Wylock, Christophe E.; Colinet, Pierre; Cartage, Thierry; and Haut, Benoît (2008) "Coupling between Mass Transfer and Chemical Reactions during the Absorption of CO₂ in a NaHCO₃-Na₂CO₃ Brine : Experimental and Theoretical Study," International Journal of Chemical Reactor Engineering: Vol. 6: A4.
Available at: http://www.bepress.com/ijcre/vol6/A4