What does the NRTL model look like? Determination of boundaries for different fluid phase equilibrium regions

The adequate correlation of experimental phase equilibrium data by using any thermodynamic model represents a key point for the rigorous design of the chemical processes. However, this data correlation process remains a challenging problem, due to the high nonlinearity of the models used and the consequent problems of convergence. The present work analyzes the nonrandom two-liquids mode (NRTL) model to check the relation between the values of the binary interaction parameters and the corresponding phase equilibria that the NRTL model can or cannot reproduce. Additionally, in the case of the LLE, empirical equations have been established as a function of the nonrandomness parameter, to model the trajectory of the different miscibility boundaries observed. These functions can be used as constraints in the experimental data correlation procedure to reduce the search space and guarantee the consistency of the obtained binary interaction parameters with the experimental behavior of the system under study.

Automated summary

This study analyzes the characteristics of the nonrandom two-liquids model (NRTL) and investigates its relation with binary interaction parameters and phase equilibria. Empirical equations are established to simulate the trajectories of different miscibility boundaries.