Modeling aspects of dual frequency sonochemical reactors

The dual or multi-source irradiation with same or different operating frequency has proved to be a new dimension to the sonochemical reactors. In the present work, the model developed earlier [P.A. Tatake, A.B. Pandit, Modeling and experimental investigation into cavity dynamics and cavitational yield: influence of dual frequency ultrasound sources, Chem. Eng. Sci. 57 (2002) 4987] using Rayleigh-Plesset equation has been made more realistic by incorporating the effect of liquid phase compressibility. The aim has been to study the bubble dynamics under the influence of dual frequency acoustic field and explain the superiority of the same as compared to the single frequency irradiations. The effect of intensity and dual-frequency on the bubble dynamics and the conditions of the cavity collapse has been investigated. The numerical results have been compared with the previous experimental trends under similar operating conditions. The simple model developed in the present work seems to quite satisfactorily explain the experimental results obtained using dual frequency sonication system. Thus, the methodology adapted in the present work is a useful starting point for the modeling and designing large scale multiple frequency reactors. Recommendations have also been made for developing realistic bubble dynamics model which should help in optimization of multiple frequency sonochemical reactors. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.