Light intensity profiles in a perfectly mixed photoreactor

The light intensity distribution in a perfectly mixed photoreactor has been studied experimentally and analytically. Experimental measurements of intensities within the reactor were made with a specially designed light probe. These data were then used to test the validity of a model which treats the ultraviolet lamp as a linear source radiating in all directions. It was found that this model, which seems appropriate and allows reasonable computations, is somewhat in error owing to the neglect of the finite size of the lamp and the existence of reflection and refraction effects within the reactor. An empirical correction function was determined for use with the model which then yields predictions in close agreement with experimental data when the reactor is filled with a light absorbing liquid.