title: Synergy of Microfluidics and Ultrasound : Process Intensification Challenges and Opportunities.
abstract: A compact snapshot of the current convergence of novel developments relevant to chemical engineering is given. Process intensification concepts are analysed through the lens of microfluidics and sonochemistry. Economical drivers and their influence on scientific activities are mentioned, including innovation opportunities towards deployment into society. We focus on the control of cavitation as a means to improve the energy efficiency of sonochemical reactors, as well as in the solids handling with ultrasound; both are considered the most difficult hurdles for its adoption in a practical and industrial sense. Particular examples for microfluidic clogging prevention, numbering-up and scaling-up strategies are given. To conclude, an outlook of possible new directions of this active and promising combination of technologies is hinted.
authors.affiliation: Mesoscale Chemical Systems, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Carre 1.339, 7500 AE, Enschede, The Netherlands. d.fernandezrivas@utwente.nl.
authors.forename: David
authors.identifier: http://orcid.org/0000-0003-4329-3248
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Fernandez Rivas
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemical Engineering, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200F, 3001, Leuven, Belgium.
authors.forename: Simon
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Kuhn
mesh_terms: D003460:Crystallization; D017886:Durapatite / Q000737:chemistry; D044085:Microfluidics / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D013010:Sonication
chemical_list: D017886:Durapatite
keywords: Chemical engineering; Microfluidics; Process intensification; Solids handling; Sonochemistry; Ultrasound