CZ:Featured article/Current
Fenske equation
The Fenske equation is used for calculating the minimum number of theoretical plates required for the separation of a binary feed stream by a distillation column that is being operated at total reflux (i.e., which means that no overhead product is being withdrawn from the column). The derivation of the Fenske equation assumes that the relative volatility is constant in the distillation column.
Theoretical plates are also often referred to as theoretical trays or equilibrium stages.
The equation was derived in 1932 by Merrell Fenske, a professor who served as the head of the chemical engineering department at the Pennsylvania State University from 1959 to 1969.[1]
When designing large-scale, continuous industrial distillation towers, it is very useful to first calculate the minimum number of theoretical plates required to obtain the desired overhead product composition.
| notes |
|---|
|