OVERALL MASS-TRANSFER IN SWIRLING DECAYING FLOW IN ANNULAR ELECTROCHEMICAL-CELLS

Mass transfer coefficients between an electrolyte solution and the inner cylinder of an annulus were determined experimentally, using the electrochemical technique, for both laminar and turbulent swirling flows of a liquid induced by means of a tangential inlet in the annular gap. The average mass transfer coefficients were determined as a function of the axial distance from the entrance, for various diameters of the inlet duct and thicknesses of the annular space, for a Reynolds number range of 100 to 5900. Enhancement of mass transfer up to 400% was achieved in comparison to that obtained in fully developed axial flow. Correlations of the experimental data, taking into account the geometrical and hydrodynamic parameters influencing the overall mass transfer, are presented. © 1990 Chapman and Hall Ltd.