RESUMEN
Radiotracer investigations were carried out in two identical phosphoric acid production reactors and a triple super phosphate (TSP) production reactor in three different plants in Tunisia. The main objective of the study was to investigate and compare their flow behavior and identify flow abnormalities, if any. Residence time distribution (RTD) of the process material (ore pulp) was measured in the three reactors using Iodine-131. The measured RTDs were treated and analyzed to obtain flow parameters such as the mean residence time (MRT), dead volume, and extent of bypassing. The treated RTD curves were modeled using a suitable mathematical model, and the values of the parameters were obtained. The results of the investigations were used to evaluate and compare the flow performance of the reactors, quantify the degree of mixing, and visualize the prevailing flow patterns. The results of the investigations are expected to be used to make necessary modifications to enhance the efficiency and optimize the performance of the reactors or the production process.
RESUMEN
The injection of a gamma-emitting tracer in backward-facing step flow was modelled. Flow and concentration fields were calculated by CFD and detector responses by a Monte-Carlo code. The objective was to show the influence of the radiotracer energy on the detector response, so as to interpret better data from radiotracer experiments. The radiotracer selection is important in obtaining reliable results, each specific case requiring careful analysis of the experimental data. However, more work is still required to achieve the prescribed goal aimed at.