LIQUID DIFFUSION METHOD

AIM: To determine the liquid diffusion coefficient of NaCl solution in distilled/de-ionized

water.

INTRODUCTION: The knowledge of physical and chemical properties of certain materials is

important because very often process engineering deal with the transformation and distribution
of these materials in bulk. One such property is diffusivity. Mass transfer takes place when there
is concentration gradient of the diffusing component.

THEORY: When a concentration gradient exists within a fluid consisting of two components,
there is a tendency for each constituent to flow in such a direction as to reduce the concentration
gradient. This is known as mass transfer. It takes place in either a gas or a liquid phase or in both
phases simultaneously.

Rate of Diffusion is given by

𝜕𝐶
𝐽 = −𝐷𝐶
𝜕𝑥
Where J=diffusion flux across unit area to the x-direction(right side),mole/cm2s

D= diffusivity,cm2/s
∂C mol/cm
= concentration gradient in the x-direction,
∂x 𝑐𝑚

The negative sign indicates that flow is from high to low concentration.

By expanding Eqn.(1) using respective terms constitutive relations, we get

𝑉 𝑑𝑘
=-D
𝐶 𝑑𝑡
The slope obtained from the plot of conductivity as function of time can be used to calculate the
diffusivity.

EQUIPMENT-LIQUID DIFFUSIN COEFFICENT APPARATUS

This liquid diffusion coefficient apparatus is used to determine the diffusivity of NaCl solution
in distilled water. A known concentration of NaCl solution is placed in diffusion cell immersed
in distilled water. A magnetic stirrer and a conductivity meter are provided to monitor the
progress of diffusion over time. A plot of conductivity against time allow for determination of
the liquid diffusivity.

Figure 1:Liquid Diffusion Coefficient Apparatus

The concentration at the chosen lower ends is taken to be constant while the concentration at the
top end is effectively zero during experiment.
OPERATING PROCEDURE

Pre-experiment procedures

1. Read and understand the theory of liquid diffusion.

2. Read and understand the equipment used in the experiment (liquid diffusion coefficient
apparatus)
3. Read the safety precautions before conducting the experiment.
4. Prepare the following materials for the experiment:
 Prepare 200mL 1M NaCl solution.
 Prepare 200Ml 2M NaCl solution.
 Prepare 200Ml 4M NaCl solution.

General Start-up Procedures

1. Fill the diffusion vessel with 1.1 of distilled/de-ionized water.

2. Connect the conductivity probe BNC connector into the socket on the conductivity meter.
Insert mini phono jack temperature sensor (built in)into the socket on conductivity meter.
3. Plug the magnetic stirrer main cable to electrical supply. Ensure that the supply voltage
correctly suits the equipment.
4. Press the ON button on the conductivity meter.
5. Switch on the magnetic stirrer and set the speed knob to 760rpm.
6. The equipment is ready for the experiment.

General Shutdown Procedures

1. Switch off the magnetic stirrer and conductivity meter.

2. Disconnect both the BNC connector & mini phono jack from the conductivity meter.
3. Drain the solution in the diffusion vessel and cell and rinse them.
4. Salt solution may attack the metal part of the equipment. Wipe off any spilage from the
unit immediately
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. All operating instructions supplied with the unit must be carefully read and understood
before attempting to operate the unit.
2. Feed stock which severely affects PTFE, PFA,PVC and borosilicate glass are not to be
used.
3. The system should not be subjected to shock ,sudden impact, vibration ,additional load,
or permanent external action of aggressive vapours .
4. Always check and rectify any leak.
5. Do not use any coarse or abrasive cleaners on glass and plastic components.
6. Leaking couplings or fittings should be carefully retightened.
7.

EXPERIMENT

Experiment Procedures

1. Start-up the unit according to procedures in General start-up procedures.

2. Fill the diffusion cell with 1M NaCl solution. Ensure that the capillary tubes are in place.
Completely fill the cell and wipe off any excess solution.
3. Carefully immerse the cell into the distilled water and position the cell until the top of the
capillaries is about 5mm below the water level.
4. Switch on the conductivity meter and the magnetic stirrer.
5. After 10 minutes,record the conductivity reading. Take readings every 5 minutes interval
for 40 minutes.
6. Repeat Step 1 to Step 6 for 2M and 4M NaCL solution.

Experimental Datasheet

Sample data collection table is shown as follows:

Volume of water, V =

Length of capillaries, x =

Diameter of capillaries =

Number of capillaries