Novel on-line sedimentation analyzer

The design and development of a novel vibrating reed technique for on-line measurement of the sedimentation kinetics of two-phase dispersions is described. The feasibility of operation of the analyzer has been successfully verified in conjunction with a variety of model and industrially relevant systems. The former include mono- and polydisperse glass ballotini/water mixtures with solids particle sizes and concentration ranges of 55-200 mu m and 1.75-2.81% (v/v), respectively. Measured settling velocities are in good accord with those obtained from direct visual observation of suspension-clear liquid interfaces. The industrially relevant systems include agglomerated kaolin/water suspensions with solids concentrations as high as 20% (v/v) and oil/water emulsions with light phase concentrations in the range 30-50% (v/v). (C) 2000 Academic Press.