Visualization and numerical prediction of flow characteristics of double diffusive convection in a static crystallizer

A quantitative flow visualization of static crystallization is performed for a binary Na₂SO₄ - H₂O solution in a rectangular static crystallizer utilizing Laser Swept Velocimetry (LSV). Comparison of experimental and numerical results for this process is also included in this paper. Both experimental and numerical results reveal key features of double diffusive convection occurred during static crystallization. A good agreement quantitatively in the experimental and numerical velocity profiles has been obtained for the experimental condition applied for this research, but the experimental flow field in the buck liquid is likely to be more complex than the somewhat idealized numerical flow field.