Spatial precipitate separation enhanced by complex formation

The separation of inorganic precipitates with similar solubility products is a challenging task in chemical engineering. We present computational fluid dynamics study precipitation reaction flow-driven reactor. For reference study, the cobalt(II)-copper(II)-oxalate system selected, where occurs simultaneously and difference within an order magnitude as shown experimentally. general description two metal ions competing for one common anion, several parameters have been varied to identify factors responsible spatial separation. Two new quantities, mean position sedimented particles excess, are introduced characterize extent calculations that complex formation prior nucleation makes feasible wide range thermodynamic or kinetic parameters. injection rate can be used fine tuning both amounts precipitate their when complexes present.