1. What is Raffinate Phase Solute Concentration?

Definition: This calculator determines the mass fraction of solute in the raffinate phase after a single ideal stage of liquid-liquid extraction.

Purpose: It helps chemical engineers design and optimize liquid-liquid extraction processes for separation operations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( X1 \) — Mass fraction of solute in raffinate phase
• \( F' \) — Solute free feed flowrate (kg/s)
• \( E' \) — Solute free extract phase flowrate (kg/s)
• \( KSolute \) — Distribution coefficient of solute
• \( zC \) — Mass fraction of solute in the feed

Explanation: The formula calculates the equilibrium concentration of solute in the raffinate phase after one extraction stage.

3. Importance of the Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation of raffinate concentration is essential for designing efficient extraction processes and determining the number of stages needed for complete separation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the solute-free flowrates, distribution coefficient, and feed mass fraction. All values must be positive, with mass fraction between 0 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the distribution coefficient?
A: It's the ratio of solute concentration in the extract phase to that in the raffinate phase at equilibrium.

Q2: Why use solute-free flowrates?
A: Solute-free basis simplifies calculations by focusing on the carrier and solvent flows independent of solute concentration.

Q3: What's a typical distribution coefficient value?
A: Values vary widely (0.1-100+) depending on the solute-solvent system and conditions.

Q4: How does this relate to multi-stage extraction?
A: Single stage calculations are building blocks for designing multi-stage extraction cascades.

Q5: What if I get X1 = zC?
A: This indicates no extraction occurred - check your flowrates and distribution coefficient.