Theoretical and experimental values for the parameter k of the Kozeny-Carman equation, as applied to sedimenting suspensions

Abstract

After a justification of correlating permeability and sedimentation equations, the Kozeny-Carman and Richardson-Zaki expressions are related to show how the Kozeny parameter k varies with suspension porosity, under sedimentation conditions. The variation of k with suspension composition is also illustrated; k can be very much greater than the values ( approximately 5) commonly quoted. It is predicted that maximum sedimentation mass-transfer rate will never occur at greater than 25% solids concentration by volume, and experimental data do not appear to contradict this.