Course

Mass Transfer II

Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur

This second course on mass transfer introduces students to key concepts, principles, and applications related to mass transfer processes. The course structure includes:

  • Fundamentals of Mass Transfer: Topics such as diffusion, film theory, and mass transfer coefficients.
  • Modeling and Design: Focus on performance calculations for separation processes using rate-based and equilibrium stage-based modeling approaches.
  • Separation Processes: Detailed coverage of methods including:
    • Absorption
    • Distillation
    • Extraction
    • Adsorption
    • Drying
  • Newer Processes: Introduction to techniques like membrane separations and ion exchange.
  • Equipment Design: Salient features of the design are presented for completeness.

A series of chosen problems are solved throughout the course to clearly illustrate and reinforce key concepts.

Course Lectures
  • Mod-01 Lec-01 Lecture-01
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module introduces the concept of diffusion, a fundamental process in mass transfer. Students will learn about Fick's laws of diffusion, their applications in different systems, and how to calculate diffusion coefficients. The significance of diffusion in separation processes, such as distillation and absorption, will be explored. Key topics include:

    • Understanding molecular diffusion.
    • Diffusion in gases, liquids, and solids.
    • Application of diffusion principles in engineering processes.
  • Mod-01 Lec-02 Lecture-02
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module focuses on film theory, a crucial aspect of mass transfer. It explains the concept of mass transfer across a fluid film and its significance in various separation processes. Topics covered include:

    • Understanding the film model and its assumptions.
    • Calculating mass transfer rates using film coefficients.
    • Applications of film theory in designing separation equipment.

    Students will engage in problem-solving exercises to reinforce their understanding of film theory.

  • Mod-01 Lec-03 Lecture-03
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module delves into mass transfer coefficients and their role in predicting mass transfer rates in engineering applications. Students will study the factors affecting mass transfer coefficients and how to calculate them for various systems. Key areas include:

    • Understanding individual and overall mass transfer coefficients.
    • Influence of physical properties on mass transfer.
    • Applications in designing and optimizing mass transfer operations.

    Real-world examples will be discussed to illustrate the concepts.

  • Mod-01 Lec-04 Lecture-04
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module introduces absorption as a mass transfer process, focusing on its principles and applications in various industries. Students will explore:

    • The mechanism of absorption and factors influencing it.
    • Design and operation of absorption columns.
    • Case studies on industrial absorption processes.

    Problem-solving will be emphasized to ensure practical understanding.

  • Mod-01 Lec-05 Lecture-05
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module covers distillation, a widely used separation technique. Students will learn about its principles, types, and design considerations. Key topics include:

    • Theoretical concepts of distillation.
    • Types of distillation processes: fractional, steam, and vacuum.
    • Designing distillation columns and their operational parameters.

    Students will analyze real-world distillation processes to solidify their understanding.

  • Mod-01 Lec-06 Lecture-06
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module focuses on extraction processes, emphasizing their importance in various chemical engineering applications. Students will cover the following topics:

    • Principles of liquid-liquid and solid-liquid extraction.
    • Factors affecting extraction efficiency.
    • Design and analysis of extraction systems.

    Case studies will be used to illustrate practical applications in industry.

  • Mod-01 Lec-07 Lecture-07
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module introduces adsorption, a process where molecules adhere to a solid surface. Students will learn about the mechanisms and applications of adsorption, including:

    • Theories of adsorption, including physical and chemical adsorption.
    • Factors influencing adsorption capacity.
    • Design of adsorption systems, such as fixed-bed adsorbers.

    Students will engage in problem-solving exercises to understand adsorption in practical contexts.

  • Mod-01 Lec-08 Lecture-08
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module covers the drying process in mass transfer, focusing on its principles and applications in various industries. Key areas include:

    • Mechanics of moisture removal and drying kinetics.
    • Types of drying methods: convective, conductive, and freeze drying.
    • Design considerations for industrial dryers.

    Case studies will be presented to illustrate industrial drying applications.

  • Mod-01 Lec-09 Lecture-09
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module introduces membrane separations, an innovative technology in mass transfer processes. Students will learn about:

    • The principles of membrane separation and types of membranes.
    • Factors affecting membrane performance and selectivity.
    • Applications of membrane separation in water treatment and gas separation.

    Students will analyze case studies to understand the practical implications of membrane technologies.

  • Mod-01 Lec-10 Lecture-10
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module covers ion exchange processes, focusing on their mechanisms and applications in various fields. Key topics include:

    • Understanding the principles of ion exchange and the types of ion exchange resins.
    • Factors affecting ion exchange efficiency.
    • Design considerations for ion exchange systems in water purification and chemical processing.

    Practical examples will help students grasp the significance of ion exchange in mass transfer.

  • Mod-01 Lec-11 Lecture-11
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module presents salient equipment design features for various mass transfer processes. Students will learn about:

    • Key design principles for separation equipment.
    • Integration of mass transfer theories with equipment design.
    • Case studies showcasing successful equipment designs in industry.

    Students will engage in group activities to emphasize collaborative learning on design aspects.

  • Mod-01 Lec-12 Lecture-12
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module provides selected problem-solving exercises covering various mass transfer concepts and separation processes. Students will:

    • Work through complex problems to enhance their understanding.
    • Collaborate in groups to discuss solutions and approaches.
    • Apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.

    This hands-on approach will reinforce learning outcomes and foster critical thinking.

  • Mod-01 Lec-13 Lecture-13
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 13 delves into the intricacies of diffusion, a fundamental mechanism in mass transfer. The session covers the molecular transport of species in liquid and gas phases, emphasizing Fick's laws of diffusion. Key concepts are illustrated with practical examples to enhance understanding. The lecture also explores factors affecting diffusion rates and introduces mathematical models to predict diffusion behavior. Students will gain insight into how diffusion influences separation processes in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to petrochemicals. By the end of this session, learners will be equipped to analyze simple diffusion scenarios independently.

  • Mod-01 Lec-14 Lecture-14
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 14 focuses on film theory, a critical concept in mass transfer that conceptualizes the movement of molecules across a thin stagnant layer. The session explains the formation and significance of boundary layers in mass transfer operations. Topics include calculating mass transfer coefficients and understanding their role in enhancing separation efficiency. The lecture also examines the impact of fluid dynamics on film thickness. Through practical examples, students will learn how to apply film theory to real-world scenarios, particularly in chemical engineering processes.

  • Mod-01 Lec-15 Lecture-15
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 15 introduces mass transfer coefficients, which quantify the rate of mass transfer between phases. This session covers the derivation and significance of these coefficients in designing and optimizing separation processes. Students will learn how to calculate mass transfer coefficients using empirical correlations and theoretical models. The lecture discusses the impact of operating conditions and system properties on these coefficients. Through case studies, learners will appreciate the practical applications of mass transfer coefficients in industries such as oil and gas, food processing, and environmental engineering.

  • Mod-01 Lec-16 Lecture-16
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 16 focuses on the principles of absorption, a separation process crucial for removing impurities from gas streams. The session covers types of absorbents and the factors affecting absorption efficiency. Students will learn about the design and operation of absorption columns, including packed and plate towers. The lecture also addresses the importance of selecting appropriate absorbents for specific applications. Real-world examples will illustrate the application of absorption in industries like air pollution control and chemical manufacturing.

  • Mod-01 Lec-17 Lecture-17
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 17 delves into distillation, the most widely used separation process in chemical industries. The session covers the fundamentals of vapor-liquid equilibrium, phase diagrams, and the design of distillation columns. Students will explore different types of distillation techniques, including batch and continuous distillation. The lecture emphasizes the importance of reflux ratio, column efficiency, and energy consumption in optimizing distillation processes. Practical examples from petrochemical and alcohol industries will highlight the application of distillation.

  • Mod-01 Lec-18 Lecture-18
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 18 introduces extraction, a separation method essential for isolating valuable components from complex mixtures. The session explores different types of extraction processes, including liquid-liquid and solid-liquid extraction. Students will learn about the selection of suitable solvents and the design of extraction equipment. The lecture discusses the impact of phase equilibria and mass transfer rates on extraction efficiency. Case studies from the pharmaceutical and food industries will demonstrate the practical applications of extraction.

  • Mod-01 Lec-19 Lecture-19
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 19 covers adsorption, a process used to remove contaminants from liquids and gases. The session examines the principles of adsorption, including adsorption isotherms and kinetics. Students will learn about the selection and regeneration of adsorbents and the design of adsorption columns. The lecture also discusses the effect of temperature and pressure on adsorption efficiency. Practical applications in water treatment and air purification are highlighted through real-world examples.

  • Mod-01 Lec-20 Lecture-20
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 20 explores drying, a process essential for removing moisture from solid materials. The session covers the mechanisms of drying, including heat and mass transfer principles. Students will learn about different types of dryers and their applications in various industries. The lecture emphasizes the importance of drying kinetics and energy efficiency in optimizing drying processes. Real-world examples from food processing and pharmaceuticals will illustrate the practical use of drying techniques.

  • Mod-01 Lec-21 Lecture-21
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 21 introduces membrane separations, an innovative process for separating components based on molecular size and charge. The session covers different types of membranes and their applications in industries like water treatment and biotechnology. Students will learn about the principles of membrane transport and the factors affecting membrane performance. The lecture also discusses the advantages and limitations of membrane processes compared to traditional separation methods. Practical examples will highlight the use of membrane technology in desalination and waste treatment.

  • Mod-01 Lec-22 Lecture-22
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 22 focuses on ion exchange, a process used to purify and separate ionic species in solutions. The session covers the principles of ion exchange, including resin selection and regeneration. Students will learn about the design and operation of ion exchange columns and their applications in water softening and chemical recovery. The lecture also discusses the factors that influence ion exchange capacity and efficiency. Real-world examples will demonstrate the practical applications of ion exchange in various industries.

  • Mod-01 Lec-23 Lecture-23
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 23 explores the integration of separation processes, focusing on combining techniques to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. The session covers the principles of process integration and the benefits of using hybrid systems. Students will learn about the challenges and solutions in integrating processes like distillation with membrane separations or absorption with extraction. The lecture emphasizes optimizing resource utilization and reducing energy consumption. Practical examples from petrochemical and pharmaceutical industries will illustrate the advantages of integrated processes.

  • Mod-01 Lec-24 Lecture-24
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    Lecture 24 provides a comprehensive overview of equipment design for separation processes, focusing on the key features that influence performance and efficiency. The session covers the design principles of various separation equipment, including columns, reactors, and filters. Students will learn about the importance of material selection, pressure ratings, and flow dynamics in equipment design. The lecture also discusses the role of computational tools in optimizing equipment performance. Real-world examples will highlight the impact of equipment design on process efficiency in industries such as oil refining and chemical production.

  • Mod-01 Lec-25 Lecture-25
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module covers the essential principles of diffusion, a key process in mass transfer. Students will learn about Fick's laws, which describe diffusion mechanisms in various media, and explore factors affecting diffusion rates. The module will also include discussions on concentration gradients and their influence on mass transfer. Practical examples and case studies will illustrate the application of diffusion concepts in real-world scenarios.

  • Mod-01 Lec-26 Lecture-26
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module delves into film theory, which is crucial for understanding mass transfer in gas-liquid and liquid-liquid systems. Students will explore the concept of the mass transfer film and how it affects the overall transfer rate. The module will also cover the significance of film thickness and the role of agitation in enhancing mass transfer. Real-life applications and examples will reinforce the theoretical concepts discussed.

  • Mod-01 Lec-27 Lecture-27
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module introduces the concept of mass transfer coefficients, which are essential for quantifying the efficiency of mass transfer processes. Students will learn how to calculate these coefficients for various systems and understand their significance in design and performance analysis. The module will include practical examples of mass transfer coefficients in different separation processes, enhancing students' ability to apply theoretical concepts in engineering contexts.

  • Mod-01 Lec-28 Lecture-28
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module focuses on absorption processes, providing a comprehensive view of how mass transfer occurs in gas-liquid interactions. Students will study the underlying principles of absorption and the factors influencing it, such as temperature, pressure, and concentration. The module will also cover the design of absorption columns and the application of absorption in various industries, including environmental engineering and chemical processing.

  • Mod-01 Lec-29 Lecture-29
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module examines distillation, a vital separation technique in mass transfer. Students will learn about the principles of distillation, including vapor-liquid equilibria and the design of distillation columns. The module will discuss various distillation methods, such as continuous and batch distillation, and their applications in the chemical industry. Case studies will highlight the importance of distillation in producing high-purity products.

  • Mod-01 Lec-30 Lecture-30
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module covers extraction processes, their principles, and applications in mass transfer. Students will explore the fundamentals of solvent extraction and the factors that impact extraction efficiency. Various extraction methods will be discussed, including liquid-liquid extraction and solid-liquid extraction. The module will also highlight the relevance of extraction in industries such as pharmaceuticals and food processing.

  • Mod-01 Lec-31Lecture-31
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module explores adsorption, a crucial separation process in mass transfer. Students will learn about the principles of adsorption, including isotherm models and kinetic behaviors. The module will cover various types of adsorbents and the factors that influence adsorption efficiency. Applications of adsorption in environmental remediation and chemical engineering will be discussed, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of the process.

  • Mod-01 Lec-32 Lecture-32
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module introduces drying processes and their significance in mass transfer. Students will learn about the mechanisms of moisture removal and the various factors affecting drying rates. The module will cover different drying methods, including convective and conductive drying, and their applications in industries such as food processing and pharmaceuticals. Case studies will illustrate the importance of drying in product quality and preservation.

  • Mod-01 Lec-33 Lecture-33
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module focuses on membrane separations, an emerging technology in mass transfer. Students will explore the principles of membrane filtration and the different types of membranes available. The module will discuss the factors influencing membrane performance and the applications of membrane technology in water treatment, food processing, and biotechnological fields. Case studies will help illustrate the effectiveness of membrane separations.

  • Mod-01 Lec-34 Lecture-34
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module covers ion exchange processes, detailing their role in mass transfer and separation techniques. Students will learn about ion exchange mechanisms, resin types, and the factors that affect ion exchange efficiency. The module will also highlight applications of ion exchange in water purification and chemical processing, helping students understand the practical aspects of this important separation technique.

  • Mod-01 Lec-35 Lecture-35
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module summarizes the salient equipment design features for various mass transfer processes discussed throughout the course. Students will review the design considerations for absorption columns, distillation units, extraction equipment, and more. The module will emphasize the importance of equipment design in optimizing mass transfer efficiency and performance. Practical examples will be included to demonstrate the application of design principles in the industry.

  • Mod-01 Lec-36 Lecture-36
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This final module includes a series of chosen problems that will be solved to illustrate the concepts learned throughout the course. Students will engage in practical problem-solving exercises that cover various mass transfer processes, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in a hands-on manner. The module aims to consolidate students' understanding and prepare them for real-world applications in mass transfer engineering.

  • Mod-01 Lec-37 Lecture-37
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    In this module, we delve into the essential principles of mass transfer, emphasizing diffusion as a foundational concept. We will explore:

    • The definition and significance of diffusion in mass transfer processes.
    • Factors affecting the rate of diffusion and how it can be modeled.
    • Applications of diffusion in various separation processes.

    By the end of this module, students will have a solid understanding of how diffusion plays a critical role in the design and operation of chemical engineering processes.

  • Mod-01 Lec-38 Lecture-38
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module focuses on film theory, a crucial concept in understanding mass transfer. Key topics include:

    • The development and significance of the film theory.
    • Understanding the concentration gradients and mass transfer coefficients.
    • Applications of film theory in practical engineering problems.

    Students will engage with real-world examples to illustrate the application of film theory in separation processes and equipment design.

  • Mod-01 Lec-39 Lecture-39
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    In this module, we explore various mass transfer separation processes, including:

    1. Absorption: Mechanisms and applications.
    2. Distillation: Theory and design considerations.
    3. Extraction: Techniques and process optimization.
    4. Adsorption: Understanding the principles and applications.
    5. Drying: Mass transfer in drying processes.

    Students will analyze case studies and solve practical problems to gain insights into the application of these processes in industry.

  • Mod-01 Lec-40 Lecture-40
    Prof. Nishith Verma

    This module introduces newer mass transfer methods, focusing on advanced techniques such as:

    • Membrane separations: Principles and applications.
    • Ion exchange processes and their significance in mass transfer.
    • Comparative analysis of traditional vs modern separation techniques.

    Additionally, students will learn about the design features of salient equipment used in these processes, enhancing their understanding of contemporary mass transfer applications.