INVITED REVIEW HYDRODYNAMIC AND MIXING MODELS FOR BUBBLE COLUMN REACTORS

The knowledge of the flow patterns of each phase of bubble column reactors is of considerable importance for the rational design and scale-up. The hydrodynamic models for the liquid phase have been reviewed. The models have been based on some form of pressure balance or energy balance. These two approaches have been compared and recommendations have been made regarding the range of applicability of the individual models. A comparison between the predicted and the experimental liquid velocities has been presented whenever possible. The range of variables has been pointed out for which further investigations are needed. The empirical and theoretical models for the mixing behavior of the different phases of bubble column reactors have also been reviewed.