Analysis of Solid Concentration Profiles in Batch Sedimentation Tests Using Viscous Newtonian Fluids

Abstract

The study of the sedimentation of particulate materials is of interest in several industrial processes, such as in the design and optimization of operating conditions of thickeners and during the operational stages of drilling oil wells. In this context, this work aims to study the sedimentation of particles in viscous Newtonian fluids. For the tests, aqueous solutions of glycerol were used in the volumetric concentration of 80% and 92%. The suspensions were prepared using sand with the size range of 150-212 μm. The settling of particles was studied by using a nondestructive technique based upon the measurement of gamma-ray attenuation for achieving the local concentration of solids. The results showed that the sedimentation velocity of particles was changed significantly with increasing fluid viscosity. Moreover, the dynamic behavior of the particles settling in both glycerol solutions showed similar, with two regions of varying concentration of solids very defined: one in which the solids concentration remained constant until the transition from descending clarified interface; and the other in which the concentration remained constant until the formation of sediment.