Determination of a coalescence parameter from batch-settling experiments

Until today, neither measurements nor theory are able to describe the complex processes at the interface that occur during coalescence in liquid-liquid dispersions in a detailed way. With the model presented in this study, it is possible to characterize coalescence processes with a single integral coalescence parameter. This parameter is obtained from a simple batch-settling experiment. If experimental data are evaluated based on this model, it is ensured that the parameter is independent of the experimental equipment, mixing intensity and volume fraction of the dispersed phase. Furthermore, the drop size in the dense-packed zone can be determined with this model. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.