Comparison of Models for the Prediction of Hydrodynamic Parameters in Structured Packing Columns for Biogas Purification

This work compares three existing models used for the prediction of hydrodynamic parameters in structured packing columns. These models are used to evaluate pressure drop, liquid holdup, effective interfacial area, mass transfer coefficients and transition points. The results obtained with these models are compared to experimental data in order to choose the one with the best fit. Comparisons were made using Flexipac 350Y structured packing and two systems: Air – Water and Air – Kerosol 200. The model chosen is based on semi-empirical correlations using constants and exponents defined according to experimental measurements. To adapt the model to biogas application and to make it more representative of the system of interest, these constants were optimised and some exponents have been adjusted. Once the model modified, the results of pressure drop were compared to data from an industrial pilot plant treating 85 Nm 3 /h of biogas which contains about 30 ppm of hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) treated in a structured packing column.