Research Needs: Industrial Spray Processes, Spray Drying, and Heat Transfer

Abstract

A survey of researchers and of manufacturers of spraying, drying, and spray heat transfer equipment was conducted. Those that responded provided descriptions of processes and devices that need developmental attention. Several of these problems are described here (eg, a unifying theory of how atomization takes place; a method of evaluating the performance of a spray used to dissolve air in water to enhance mass transfer processes; a comprehensive model for predicting heat transfer from high pressure sprays; etc). It is concluded that many research topics can be gleaned from industry as needs develop and innovative ways are found for sprays to replace conventional methods.