Non –Newtonian Fluid Dynamics in a Three Phase Bubble Column: Experimental and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Comparison

Three-phase systems are widely studied for its high applicability in many industrial processes. In bubble columns, the rheological properties of the liquid phase influence on the bubbles behavior, while the solid particles modifies the mixing intensity. The technical Fluorescent Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV-F) is used in the experimental liquid phase analysis in multiphase flows with Rhodamine B as a tracer particle. The aim of this work is to analyze the effect of the Carboximetil-cellulose solution (0.25%) as a Non –Newtonian fluid in a three-phase system in a cylindrical bubble column. FCC solid particles with 100-150 µm of diameter are used as solid phase, and air compressed as gas phase. The experimental studies were carried out in a cylindrical bubble column laboratory scale with 145 mm internal diameter and a height of 1m. The effects are investigated for two superficial gas velocities with 4.2x10^-4 solid load. The experimental conditions are used in a numerical simulation to validate the CFD models and predict the bubble column performance. The results for a non-Newtonian solution (CMC) and solid load are presented and discussed.