Four-point optical probe for measurement of bubble dynamics: Validation of the technique

The four-point optical probe and the developed data processing algorithm for the measurement of bubble dynamics were validated by video imaging. It was found that the distribution of bubble velocities, specific interfacial area and local gas holdup obtained by the probe match well with the data obtained by video imaging. The bubble chord length obtained by the probe is also validated indirectly. Therefore, the four-point optical probe and the developed algorithm for data processing can be used to characterize the bubble dynamics in multiphase flow systems, to further advance the fundamental understanding of the behavior of such systems.