Evaluation of vacuum distillation column performance using radiotracers

A radiotracer investigation was carried out to investigate flow dynamics of water in a vacuum distillation column (VDC) meant for production of heavy water. Residence time distribution (RTD) of heavy water was measured using bromine-82 as a radiotracer. The measured RTDs were used to determine the MRTs and examine the radial distribution of water within the beds inside the VDC. Axial dispersion model was used to simulate the measured RTD curves and flow patterns within the different section of the column. Results of RTD analysis showed significant maldistribution in liquid phase flow in the distillation column.