Abstract: This study investigates the distribution of ultrasound (US) energy in a batch system for solutions with viscosity ranging from 1 to approximately 3000 mPas. Sonication was performed using horn type configurations operating at 20-30 kHz and rated power capacity of 50 or 200 W. Two different tip diameters (3 or 7 mm) and two insertion depths (35 or 25 mm) within vessels of different sizes ( approximate to 60 or 130 ml) were utilized. Additionally, a special conical tip design was employed. For each experimental setup, the calorimetric efficiency was estimated, the cavitationally active regions were visualized using the sonochemiluminescence (SCL) method and bubble cluster formation inside the vessel was macroscopically observed using a high speed camera (HSC). In the viscosity range tested, the calorimetry results showed that the efficiency and continuous operation of the device depend on both the rated power and the horn tip diameter. The ratio between electrical and calorimetric power input remained consistently around 40 to 50% across the different configurations for water, but for the 123.2 mPas solution exhibited significant variation ranging from 40 to 85%. Moreover, the power density in the smaller reactor was found to be nearly double compared to the larger one. The SCL analysis showed multiple cavitationally active zones in all setups, and the zones intensity decreased considerably with increase of the solutions viscosity. The results for the cone tip were not conclusive, but can be used as the basis for further investigation. The current research highlights the importance of thoroughly understanding the impact of each design parameter, and of establishing characterization methodologies to assist in the future development of scaled-up, commercial applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.3
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEP.2024.109715