Supercritical fluids (SCFs) demonstrate significant variations in thermodynamic and transport properties (especially near the critical point) as a function of reduced pressure and temperature. SCFs have liquid-like densities and gas-like diffusivities. In addition, reaction mechanisms in SCFs are quite different from those in subcritical fluids. The unique properties of SCFs, especially the pressure-dependent solubility, have led to their widespread industrial use as extraction and cleaning solvents. Supercritical water (SCW) is also used for oxidation of toxic organic wastes.

CFDRC has developed a comprehensive simulation capability for studying supercritical fluid transport in chemical systems. This includes simulating supercritical fluid flow, heat/mass transfer and gas/surface chemistry over Reynolds numbers ranging from the laminar to the fully turbulent regime. A modified low-Re number model is used to account for steep variations in thermophysical properties near solid boundaries. Real fluid properties are evaluated through property models, or with the NIST SUPERTRAPP software. This capability has been validated on a number of benchmark cases and is currently in use at several government and commercial organizations.

The complex interaction between thermophysical properties during the transport of supercritical fluids may lead to unusual heat transfer and chemistry behavior in such systems. Detailed analyses of these interactions are essential to optimize the performance of SCF systems. This capability has been incorporated in CFD-ACE+ which is available from ESI-Group.

CFDRC also has significant experience in analyzing thermal and chemical performance of supercritical fluids in various engineering systems such as heat exchangers, nozzles, valves, reaction chambers, etc.

Please contact us to discuss your specific needs.