Numerical Modeling and Computation in Separation and Adsorption

A special issue of Separations (ISSN 2297-8739). This special issue belongs to the section "Separation Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 10 July 2026 | Viewed by 481

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School of Energy and Mechanical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are delighted to invite submissions to this Special Issue of Separations. This Special Issue aims to collate the latest advances and cutting-edge applications of numerical simulations in separation science and engineering. We encourage submissions focusing on multiscale models, from the microscopic to the macroscopic level, which can provide profound insights into the fundamentals of mass, momentum, and energy transport. Furthermore, applied research dedicated to solving practical engineering challenges, such as process intensification, equipment design, scale-up effects, and system integration/optimization, is highly welcome.

We welcome original research articles and forward-looking perspectives that push the boundaries of numerical applications in separation science and engineering. Contributions should emphasize practical applications, theoretical advancements, or interdisciplinary approaches that address current challenges and future opportunities in the field.

Topics of interest for this Special Issue include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations involved in separation processes.
  • Modeling of coupled mass transfer and reaction processes.
  • Numerical investigations into unit operations like chromatography, extraction, and adsorption.
  • Design and screening of separation materials via molecular simulations.
  • Development and application of multiscale and multiphysics models.
  • Data-driven approaches integrating artificial intelligence with numerical modeling.
  • Dynamic simulation, control, and optimization of separation processes.

Dr. Hao Wu
Guest Editor

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Separations is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

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Keywords

  • computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
  • mass transfer separation
  • multiscale simulation
  • process optimization
  • multiphase flow
  • molecular simulation

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Research

14 pages, 3775 KB  
Article
Understanding and Mitigating Corona Quenching in ESPs Under High Fly Ash Concentrations in a 660 MW Coal-Fired Unit
by Haibao Zhao, Peiyuan Li, Hanxiao Liu, Tao Liu and Zhengda Yang
Separations 2026, 13(2), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations13020060 - 8 Feb 2026
Viewed by 292
Abstract
Corona quenching is a major obstacle to the stable and efficient operation of electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) in coal-fired power plants, particularly under high-ash coal combustion. This study evaluates a novel double-V labyrinth pre-collection device as an active strategy to mitigate corona quenching. Field [...] Read more.
Corona quenching is a major obstacle to the stable and efficient operation of electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) in coal-fired power plants, particularly under high-ash coal combustion. This study evaluates a novel double-V labyrinth pre-collection device as an active strategy to mitigate corona quenching. Field measurements from a 660 MW ultra-supercritical coal-fired unit, combined with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, demonstrate that the retrofit significantly improved inlet flow uniformity and reduced fly ash concentration before the ESP. Consequently, corona discharge stability was enhanced, overall collection efficiency increased from 99.42% to 99.92%, and outlet fly ash concentration decreased from 81 mg/m3 to 20.5 mg/m3. Although the pressure drop rose modestly (128 Pa to 187.5 Pa), the overall ESP energy demand was reduced due to more stable operation at lower voltages. These results confirm the technical feasibility and engineering applicability of pre-collection technology, providing a cost-effective solution to overcome corona quenching and ensure ultra-low emission compliance in large coal-fired units. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Numerical Modeling and Computation in Separation and Adsorption)
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