Agglomeration and rapid ascent of microbubbles by ultrasonic irradiation

Microbubbles have some different characteristics from conventional bubbles. To apply the useful properties for gas–liquid contact operation in industry, however, a separate technology of microbubbles has to be realized. In this study, promotion of microbubble separation using ultrasound was proposed. By irradiating with ultrasound, milky white microbubbles suspended solution changed instantaneously to be clear. The interesting behavior of microbubbles observed in the ultrasonic field was investigated by microscopic and macroscopic visualizations. The rapid ascent of microbubbles was caused by their agglomeration, where the Bjerknes force of attraction and electrical repulsive force on microbubble surface acted. Ultrasonic irradiation into microbubble suspended solution was very useful for dynamic operation of microbubbles.

Research highlights
► Microbubble suspended solution becomes rapidly clear with ultrasonic irradiation.
► Microbubbles were approaching each other and agglomerating.
► The removal technology of microbubble using ultrasound is proposed.