Effect of bidirectional mass transfer on non-isothermal gas absorption process

The simultaneous heat and mass process in a binary gas–liquid mixture is modelled by reformulating the classical two-film theory. The original expression from the two-film model is reformulated to obtain algebraic equations where all interfacial quantities are explicitly described in terms of bulk conditions. Use of the new formulation is demonstrated in the analysis of some absorbers operating under various conditions. Influence of various operating parameters is discussed including gas and liquid compositions, liquid pre-cooling, transfer coefficients and flow rates. The new formulation would provide a convenient tool in the analysis of gas–liquid contact devices in general.

► The two-film model has been reformulated for binary gas–liquid mixture.
► The new formulation provides alternative description of the physics.
► Use of the new formulation is demonstrated for non-isothermal gas absorbers.
► Absorber performance is found greatly affected by mass diffusion.