PARBUIN – Particle-Bubble Interactions for Green Processes

The Institute of Process Engineering, led by Prof. Dr. Mark Hlawitschka, in collaboration with Dr. Mahdi Saeedipour from the Department of Particle Flow Modelling at the Johannes Kepler University Linz, under the PARBUIN initiative, is driving research towards the creation of environmentally friendly processes. By delving into the intricacies of processes at the smallest scale, their aim is to revolutionize the efficiency and design of chemical apparatus while minimizing uncertainties. At the heart of their investigation are bubble column reactors, widely employed across industries such as chemistry, petrochemistry, biochemistry, and metallurgy. These reactors play a pivotal role in the conversion of CO 2 into vital compounds like methane and methanol. However, their true potential has yet to be fully harnessed due to the overlooked interactions between solid particles, gas bubbles, and their motion within these systems. To bridge this critical gap, the research team is pioneering a groundbreaking technique that enables fully resolved simulations of the complex interactions between bubbles and moving particles. By unlocking comprehensive insights into the physics of liquid-gas-solid flow, they are pushing the boundaries of understanding in this field. Furthermore, the project introduces novel models and correlations tailored for macroscopic- level computational simulations. These advancements will undergo rigorous validation through complementary experiments, meticulously tracking particle motion and scrutinizing the interplay between bubbles and particles. The aim is to shed light on hydrodynamic phenomena on the small scale within bubble column reactors. The project`s innovative approach lies in the development of new models and correlations that significantly enhance macroscopic-level simulation techniques. By leveraging detailed small- scale simulations and experiments, the team is spearheading pioneering research. The validation experiments encompass pioneering methods for bubble movement detection and an in-depth exploration of the interaction between bubbles and particles, particularly at high solid concentrations. The anticipated outcomes of this ambitious project will revolutionize the design and optimization of bubble column reactors across diverse applications. With a strong emphasis on the production of methanol from CO 2, a globally sought-after compound, the research will contribute to meeting the growing demand for sustainable solutions. The PARBUIN initiative is poised to redefine the landscape of green processes, harnessing cutting-edge research to unlock a future of efficient, eco-friendly technologies. For more information or to stay up to date with the latest developments, please visit www.jku.at/ivt.