(131b) Process Intensification of Distillation Using a Microwick Technology Platform | AIChE

(131b) Process Intensification of Distillation Using a Microwick Technology Platform

Authors 

Tegrotenhuis, W. E. - Presenter, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Bottenus, D., Washington State University
Humble, P., Pacific Northwest National Lab
Powell, M. R., Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Process intensification of distillation has been advanced using a microwick technology platform that has been demonstrated for multiple gas-liquid processes, including partial condensation, absorption, stripping, and distillation. Mass transfer processes are intensified by constraining the liquid phase within thin wicking structures, which for distillation dramatically reduces the height of an equivalent theoretical plate (HETP). Multiple separations have been demonstrated with microchannel distillation (MCD) devices, including fractionation of JP-8, a military diesel fuel, purification of n-octane, separation of propane and propylene, and isotopic enrichment of methane. Results have yielded HETPs as low as 0.33 cm and up to 60 separation stages were accompished in a single device with an active length of 25 cm. Dimensional analysis of the data from the variety of separations provide insights into the performance and scaleability of the technology. Computational fluid dynamics models of the processes indicate the potential for an additional factor of 10 reduction in HETP. Comparisons are made to other microfluidic distillation technologies as well as to commercial advanced structured packings.

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