Hokkaido University Research Profiles

Japanese
Manufacturing Technology

Liquid Atomization Technology Using Ultrasound and Microbubbles

Kazumichi Kobayashi Associate Professor

Toward active control of the amount of liquid atomization

When ultrasonic waves are irradiated from the liquid to the liquid surface, atomization of the liquid occurs at the liquid surface. In recent years, it has become clear that microbubbles near the liquid surface are responsible for this phenomenon. We are aiming to control the amount of liquid atomization by ultrasound.

Content of research

When ultrasonic waves are emitted from inside a liquid to the surface, the liquid is atomized. The atomized liquid becomes small droplets with a diameter of several micrometers. This liquid atomization technology can produce uniform fine droplets in an energy saving manner and is still widely used in our daily life. Although the mechanism of liquid atomization is still not completely understood, based on our previous research, it has become clear that microbubbles in the vicinity of the liquid surface promote atomization. In this study, we focus on the number of microbubbles in a liquid and aim to control the amount of liquid atomization by ultrasound. By adjusting the number of microbubbles appropriately, we aim to atomize liquids that could not be atomized by ultrasound and to further increase the amount of liquid atomization.

Potential for social implementation

  • ・Active control of the amount of liquid atomization
  • ・Application to mixed liquid separation technology
  • ・Technology to atomize liquids that could not be atomized in the past

Appealing points to industry and local governments

Liquid atomization technology is widely applied to products in our daily life. It has been suggested that microbubbles promote the atomization of liquids, but this mechanism has been gradually clarified in recent years. We are conducting research on this liquid atomization technology from all angles, not only using experiments but also numerical analysis. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

2022/5/27Released