Utilizing RSM for experimental modeling of mass transfer coefficients in a perforated rotating disc contactor (PRDC)

This study aims to examine and optimize the solvent extraction process of two different liquid-liquid systems, including toluene-acetone-water and n-butylacetate-acetone-water, in a perforated rotating disc contactor (PRDC) pilot plant according to response surface methodology (RSM). The interaction effects of four influential parameters of dispersed phase velocity, and continuous phase velocity, rotor speed, and system type (interfacial tension) are investigated. Three responses of dispersed phase hold-up, Sauter mean drop diameter (d(32)), and volumetric overall mass transfer coefficient (K-od.a) are correlated based on the central composite design (CCD) method. Satisfactory consistency between the predicted and empirical data based on the correlation coefficient (R-2) values of higher than 0.99 for all responses. From investigating the interaction effects of parameters, the increase in the K-od.a and d(32) responses was detected in both systems when the rotation speed and dispersed phase velocity are enhanced, respectively. The optimized values of K-od.a, hold-up, and d(32) responses were obtained 12.257, 0.118, and 1.114, respectively, for the n-butylacetate system at 305 rpm, 10 m/s, and 9.75 m/s as rotation speed, continuous, and dispersed phase velocities, respectively.