reflection on separation process ii
Chapter 1 : Crystallization
I have learnt a lot about crystallization including the types of equipment used, the industrial applications and the basic concepts of crystallization such as the mass balance. I have also learnt a lot on the types of crystals and the formation process as well as the nucleation theory.
Chapter 2 : Adsorption
For adsorption, I have understood the difference between absorption and adsorption. I have also mastered the different types of isotherms and the variables involved in adsorption i.e. pressure and temperature. Lastly, I have also studied about the mass transfer zone and the equilibrium relations of adsorption.
Chapter 3 : Ion Exchange
In this chapter I've learnt the basic mechanism of ion exchange which is not so different from adsorption. I've also had discussions with my group mates in class regarding the conceptual part of this chapter i.e. The industrial applications, properties etc. Not forgetting the calculations we did on equilibrium relations which I'm still not very clear about as well as the scale up.
Chapter 4 : Membrane Separation
For membrane, we have gone through a group discussion on the types, driving force, applications and important terms in this chapter. We also carried out problem solving involving dialysis and transport-liquid permeation. My favourite part of this chapter is gas mixing model and its calculations
Chapter 5 : Evaporation
Evaporation is the hardest topic in this course so far as it has many theories and a few rules that needs to be understood well. I have learnt the evaporation theory through group discussions conducted in classes and also being taught about the mass and heat balance which is the most important key in this topic. I have also learnt about the industrial applications and the effects of certain parameters on economics. As for the calculation part, I have learnt to use the Duhring line & Enthalpy-Concentration Charts for concentrated solution.
Chapter 6 : Drying
I have not studied drying in detail as it was not being tested for Test 2 but based on what is being taught in the class, I have learnt to understand the principles of drying, the type of driers and to understand the equilibrium moisture principle. For the calculations, I have learnt to calculate the humidity, adiabatic saturation temperature as well as the wet bulb temperature. Two videos were uploaded prior to our class and it was rather useful in giving a clear picture and understanding on the concept of drying.