Design and evaluation of a microrectification platform using 3D printing

Abstract

We present a microrectification platform to separate effectively binary liquid mixtures, using n-hexane and cyclohexane as a model system. We design and 3D print rectification columns with three different tray structures and one packed structure for enhanced mass transfer. In the experiments, at a reflux ratio of 4.0, we obtain a height equivalent of a theoretical plate (HETP) of 10.3 mm using a designed tray structure, demonstrating an efficient process. We further develop a mass transfer model to obtain the gas–liquid mass transfer coefficient for optimal process design. Our approach that leverages the advantages of 3D printing offers an effective solution for separation of liquids with close boiling points.