Modelling droplet formation in cross-flow membrane emulsification Original Research Article

In the present paper we illustrate applications of a new set of force balance equations able to predict the average size of a droplet forming during cross-flow membrane emulsification processes. These balance equations allow to correlate the droplet diameters with the advancing and receding contact angles along the droplet-pore contact line. When the drops detach directly from the pore outlet without an appreciable neck formation (i.e. excluding very low cross-flow velocities) the predicted droplet diameters are in quantitative agreement with those observed in experiments. Using the model the influence of the process parameters can be effectively investigated, allowing optimization of the emulsification conditions to achieve a desired product.