Coalescence and Break-Up in Bubble Columns: Euler-Lagrange Simulations Using a Stochastic Approach

A systematic study of the impact of break-up and coalescence (B&C) on the hydrodynamics in a bubble column is presented. A stochastic approach was chosen for the integration of various B&C kernels into a four-way coupled Euler-Lagrange model. The model is benchmarked against the Deen case, and good agreements were found for the gas holdup and the bubble size distribution. While the results indicate that monodisperse bubbles suffice to correctly forecast the flow features, B&C models are the key to predict the specific interfacial area especially in the lower half of the bubble column.