Simulation and Analysis of Atomization Performance of a Venturi Jet Pyrolysis Reactor

Venturi jet pyrolysis is a popular method for the preparation of micro–nanocerium oxide. Its atomization performance should be investigated because it influences the purity and particle size of cerium oxide. This was carried out in this study via a combination of experiments and fluent simulation. Images obtained from physical experiments revealed the effect of jet atomization and the variation rule of the average Sauter diameter. Numerical simulation of the jet atomization process was carried out using the VOF-to-DPM model, SST turbulence model, KH-RT droplet crushing model, and random collision model. The initial atomization time of jet atomization decreased with increase in gas velocity, and at varying solution velocities, the initial atomization time of jet atomization varied slightly. Particle uniformity of the Venturi reactor was the best at throat velocities of 35 and 90 m/s at low and high gas velocities, respectively. At varying values of inlet velocities of the solution, the optimum preparation condition was 0.01 m/s and a fine and consistent particle diameter. The findings of this study provide helpful insights for further improving and optimizing the Venturi pyrolysis reactor.