Application of image processing for a bubble column reactor

Two phase flow is the simultaneous flow of two phases predominantly a gas and a liquid. A bubble column reactor is an example of the application of two phase flows. Bubble column reactors find their use in bioprocesses and in chemical industries. In this article the changes in the nature of air bubbles due to the change in flow rate has been studied using image processing techniques. The flow rate of air is controlled by a flow control valve. Photographs of the bubbles are taken for various velocities. An Image processing algorithm is developed using various image processing techniques and the photographs are analysed. The properties such as the velocity, shape and area of the bubbles are studied by image processing techniques.