1. What is Liquid Flowrate on Solute Free Basis?

Definition: This calculator determines the liquid flowrate excluding the solute component based on inlet conditions and mole fraction.

Purpose: It's essential for absorption column design and operation in chemical engineering processes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( L_s \) — Liquid flowrate on solute free basis (mol/s)
• \( L_0 \) — Inlet liquid flowrate (mol/s)
• \( x_1 \) — Mole fraction of solute in inlet liquid stream

Explanation: The formula removes the solute component from the total liquid flowrate to give the flowrate of just the solvent.

3. Importance of Solute Free Flowrate Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation ensures proper mass balance in absorption processes and helps determine column sizing and operating parameters.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the inlet liquid flowrate in mol/s and the mole fraction of solute (between 0 and 1). The default mole fraction is 0.05.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why calculate solute free flowrate?
A: It represents the actual solvent flowrate available for absorption, excluding the solute already present.

Q2: What units should be used?
A: Flowrates should be in consistent molar units (typically mol/s), and mole fraction is dimensionless.

Q3: What if my mole fraction is zero?
A: If x₁=0, the solute free flowrate equals the inlet flowrate (pure solvent).

Q4: Can this be used for gas streams?
A: A similar concept applies to gas streams, but this calculator specifically handles liquid streams.

Q5: How does this relate to absorption efficiency?
A: The solute free flowrate helps determine the solvent-to-gas ratio which affects absorption efficiency.