Influence of process variables on foaming ability of surfactants: Experimental study and dimensional analysis

Rémy Bois (1) , Océane Adriao (1) , Guillaume Delaplace (2) , Isabelle Pezron (1) , Alla Nesterenko (1) , Elisabeth Van-Hecke (1)

1 TIMR - Transformation Intégrée de la Matière Renouvelable
2 UMET - Unité Matériaux et Transformations - UMR 8207

By applying the dimensional analysis approach to a lab-scale stirred tank process, the influence of process parameters on the foamability of three model surfactants: SLES, Tween 20 and Brij L23 is investigated and modelled. For validation of process law, the theoretical approach is complemented with an experimental work varying process parameters such as agitator rotational speed rate (N), mixing time (tm) and bottom clearance (Cb). The foam rate of expansion of surfactant solutions is correlated with success to two dimensionless numbers: the Reynolds number and the mixing time number. Reynolds number is observed as mainly governing the amount of formed foam. A clear difference between the intermediate flow regime (Re < 105) and the turbulent one (Re > 105) is observed leading to a different process law for each regime. Master curves are finally drawn and can be used for helping to predict final foam volumes in the studied experimental domain according to both dimensionless numbers.

Mots clés: Foaming; Dimensional analysis; Reynolds number; Foaming; Surfactant; Process; Mechanical stirring

Domaines: Ingénierie des aliments

Rémy Bois, Océane Adriao, Guillaume Delaplace, Isabelle Pezron, Alla Nesterenko, et al.. Influence of process variables on foaming ability of surfactants: Experimental study and dimensional analysis. Chemical Engineering Research and Design, 2021, Chemical Engineering Research and Design, 165, pp.40-50. ⟨10.1016/j.cherd.2020.10.021⟩. ⟨hal-03052596⟩