Journal article
Scale attachment and detachment: The role of hydrodynamics and surface morphology
Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark1
CERE – Center for Energy Ressources Engineering, Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark2
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark3
Fluid Mechanics, Coastal and Maritime Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark4
Manufacturing Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark5
Danish Offshore Technology Centre, Technical University of Denmark6
Crystallization fouling presents a significant challenge in a wide range of industries. Accurate understanding of crystal formation is crucial for planning preventative measures and maximizing the effectiveness of maintenance interventions. In this study, we demonstrate that understanding net deposition rates depends on the knowledge of the detachment mechanisms and deposition distribution characteristics.
We quantify deposition in a once-through flow set-up and visualize crystal formation through high-resolution X-ray micro-computed tomography scanning. Additionally, we quantify the height distribution of deposited crystals through computed surface texture parameters. Finally, we used computational fluid dynamics, implementing large-eddy simulations turbulence modeling and Eulerian transport of chemical species, to describe bulk and wall reactions and quantify energy and mass transport in turbulent eddies.
Results show that attachment and detachment processes depend on fluid hydrodynamics; the influx of material determines the overall deposition to the surface, while the deposition pattern is governed by the surface morphology of the initial surface morphology. Our findings provide a foundation for understanding fouling mechanisms and present a template for developing more accurate prediction models.
Language: | English |
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Year: | 2022 |
Pages: | 132583 |
ISSN: | 18733212 and 13858947 |
Types: | Journal article |
DOI: | 10.1016/j.cej.2021.132583 |
ORCIDs: | Løge, Isaac A. , Bentzon, Jakob R. , Klingaa, Christopher G. , Anabaraonye, Benaiah U. , Walther, Jens H. and Fosbøl, Philip L. |