JP5808662B2 - Fluid distribution device, extraction method and reaction method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a fluid flow device, an extraction method, and a reaction method.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a fluid circulation device is known as a means for causing a plurality of fluids to merge to generate an interaction. Patent Document 1 listed below shows a microreactor as an example of such a fluid circulation device.

  The microreactor disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a plate in which a flow path for flowing two fluids together is formed. The flow path formed in the plate includes a first flow path for flowing a first fluid that is one of the two fluids, and a second flow path for flowing a second fluid that is the other fluid. In addition, after the fluid flowing through these two flow paths merges, the mixed fluid flow path through which the mixed fluid flows is provided. In each upstream end of the first flow path and the second flow path, an inlet for introducing a fluid into each flow path is formed, and the first flow path and the second flow path It extends so that it may mutually approach gradually as it goes downstream from an inlet_port | entrance. The downstream end of the first flow path and the downstream end of the second flow path are connected to the upstream end of the mixed fluid flow path. An outlet for taking out the mixed fluid flowing through the mixed fluid channel is formed at the downstream end of the mixed fluid channel. In the mixed fluid flow path, the mixed fluid is in a slag flow state in which a plurality of slags of the first fluid having a minute length and a plurality of slags of the second fluid having a minute length are alternately arranged in the flow direction In the mixed fluid, the fluids interact with each other through the contact interface between the first fluid and the second fluid.

JP 2009-233483 A

  However, in the microreactor described in Patent Literature 1, after the interaction between the first fluid and the second fluid occurs in the mixed fluid, the first and second fluids included in the mixed fluid cause the interaction. Separation for separating the first fluid and the second fluid from the discharged fluid or separating the product because the product is discharged from the outlet of the mixed fluid flow path in a state where all the products are mixed. There is a problem that the work becomes very complicated.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to obtain a desired fluid or product from the mixed fluid after the interaction between the plurality of fluids included in the mixed fluid occurs. It is to simplify the separation work to separate.

In order to achieve the above object, a fluid circulation device according to the present invention is a fluid circulation device that circulates a fluid, and a flow path structure in which a plurality of flow passages for circulating a fluid are formed; A separation header attached to a flow channel structure and configured to separate a fluid flowing through each flow passage into a light fluid having a small specific gravity and a heavy fluid having a specific gravity larger than that of the light fluid by a specific gravity difference; and the separation A light fluid deriving unit for deriving the light fluid separated by the header from the separation header, and a heavy fluid deriving unit for deriving the heavy fluid separated by the separation header from the separation header, The flow path structure is formed by laminating a plurality of plates including a plurality of substrates on which the individual flow passages are respectively formed, and each flow passage is a plurality of types of fluids mixed with each other. A mixed fluid flow path through which the mixed fluid flows, and the downstream end of the mixed fluid flow path of each flow path is a specific part of the flow path structure formed by the edges of the plurality of plates. The separation headers are respectively opened on the side surfaces, and the separation headers are attached to the specific side surfaces so as to cover the downstream ends of all the mixed fluid flow paths opening on the specific side surfaces, and the separation headers has an internal space in which the fluid mixture flowing from the mixing fluid flow path has a downstream end communicating with the mixing fluid channel is separated by specific gravity difference and lighter fluid and heavy fluid, before The light fluid lead-out portion is connected to a portion of the internal space where the light fluid is accumulated, and the heavy fluid lead-out portion is connected to a portion of the internal space where the heavy fluid is accumulated.

In the fluid distribution apparatus, the interior space of the separate header at the downstream end of the mixed fluid flow path is in communication, and the incoming flow from the mixing fluid channel into the interior space the fluid mixture light fluid and heavy fluid since separated by difference in specific gravity, and further, light fluid outlet portion connected to a portion where the light fluid from accumulating within the inner space, heavier fluid outlet portion in a portion heavy fluid accumulates within the interior space connected to, For example, when a substance to be separated from the mixed fluid is included in the light fluid, the light fluid containing the substance can be derived from the internal space through the light fluid deriving unit, and the substance to be separated from the mixed fluid is the heavy fluid. If it is contained in the heavy fluid, the heavy fluid containing the substance can be derived from the internal space through the heavy fluid deriving unit. That is, in this fluid circulation device, after interaction between a plurality of fluids included in the mixed fluid occurs in the mixed fluid flowing through the mixed fluid flow path, a desired fluid can be separated and extracted from the mixed fluid. it can. Furthermore, in this fluid circulation device, since the mixed fluid is separated into the light fluid and the heavy fluid in the internal space of the separation header provided in the fluid circulation device, the light fluid or the heavy fluid is a desired fluid. Does not need to perform separation work on the light fluid or the heavy fluid after being derived from the fluid circulation device. In addition, when a desired product is contained in the light fluid or heavy fluid, the separation of the product from the light fluid or heavy fluid is performed by mixing all of the multiple types of fluids and products flowing through the flow path. Compared with the case where a desired product is separated from a mixed fluid in a fresh state, the separation can be performed with a simpler separation operation. Therefore, in this fluid circulation device, after the interaction between a plurality of fluids included in the mixed fluid occurs, it is possible to simplify the separation work for separating the desired fluid or product from the mixed fluid.

In the fluid circulation device, each of the flow passages includes a first introduction path into which the first fluid is introduced, a second introduction path into which the second fluid is introduced, an end portion on the downstream side of the first introduction path, and The two fluids are joined so that the first fluid flowing through the first introduction path and the second fluid flowing through the second introduction path are mixed with each other, connected to the downstream end of the second introduction path. The mixed fluid flow path is connected to the downstream side of the merged section, and the mixed fluid flow path joins the first fluid and the second fluid that are merged at the merge section and mixed with each other. A mixed fluid consisting of fluid may flow in.

  According to this configuration, only by introducing the first fluid into the first introduction path and the second fluid into the second introduction path, the two fluids merge so as to be mixed with each other at the junction, In the channel, the mixed fluids interact with each other, and then the mixed fluid is automatically separated into a light fluid and a heavy fluid in the internal space of the separation header due to a specific gravity difference. That is, in this configuration, all steps from mixing the first fluid and the second fluid to separation due to the specific gravity difference can be performed in the fluid circulation device. For this reason, for example, the flow passage does not include the first introduction path, the second introduction path, and the merging portion, and the first fluid and the second fluid are mixed outside the fluid circulation device, and then the mixed fluid is mixed. Compared with a fluid circulation device that needs to be introduced into the flow path, a device required to mix both fluids can be omitted. That is, according to this configuration, all steps from mixing the first fluid and the second fluid to separation by the specific gravity difference can be performed in the fluid circulation device without separately providing a mixing device.

  In the fluid circulation device, the light fluid lead-out portion is formed inside the flow channel structure so as to be connected to a portion where the light fluid is accumulated in the internal space, and the light fluid flows in from the internal space. A fluid for mixing with the light fluid is introduced into the flow path structure, and the light fluid is derived so that the fluid merges with the light fluid flowing through the light fluid conduit. A light-side introduction path connected to the road may be formed.

  According to this configuration, since the additional fluid can be merged from the light-side introduction path with the light fluid flowing through the light-fluid lead-out path, the additional fluid can be mixed and interacted with the light fluid. it can. In addition, in this configuration, since the additional fluid can be mixed with the light fluid separated from the heavy fluid in the internal space of the separation header, for example, the interaction between the light fluid and the additional fluid in the mixed fluid If a substance that reduces efficiency is contained and most of the substance is contained in a heavy fluid separated in the interior space of the separation header, additional fluid is added to the light fluid with a reduced content of the substance. Can be mixed and allowed to interact. As a result, the efficiency of the interaction between the light fluid and the additional fluid can be improved.

  In the fluid circulation device, the heavy fluid outlet is formed in the flow channel structure so as to be connected to a portion of the internal space where the heavy fluid accumulates, and the heavy fluid flows in from the internal space. And a fluid to be mixed with the heavy fluid is introduced into the flow path structure, and the fluid joins the heavy fluid flowing through the heavy fluid outlet. A heavy-side introduction path connected to the heavy fluid lead-out path may be formed so as to make it happen.

  According to this configuration, since the additional fluid can be merged from the heavy side introduction path with the heavy fluid flowing through the heavy fluid outlet path, the additional fluid can be mixed with the heavy fluid to mutually Can act. In addition, in this configuration, since the additional fluid can be mixed with the heavy fluid separated from the light fluid in the internal space of the separation header, for example, the interaction between the heavy fluid and the additional fluid in the mixed fluid When a substance that reduces the efficiency of the substance is contained and most of the substance is contained in the light fluid separated in the inner space of the separation header, an additional fluid is added to the heavy fluid with the reduced content of the substance. Can be mixed and allowed to interact. As a result, the efficiency of interaction between the heavy fluid and the additional fluid can be improved.

  The extraction method according to the present invention uses the fluid circulation device to mix an extraction fluid containing an extraction object and an extraction agent that is a fluid for extracting the extraction object from the extraction fluid. An extraction method for extracting the extraction object from an extraction fluid to the extraction agent, wherein one fluid that is one of the fluid to be extracted and the extraction agent is introduced into the first introduction path, and A fluid introduction step of introducing another fluid, which is the other fluid of the fluid to be extracted and the extractant, into the second introduction path; the one fluid introduced into the first introduction path; and the second introduction path The introduced other fluid joins so as to be mixed with each other at the joining portion, and the fluid to be extracted and the extractant are mixed in the mixed fluid while the mixed fluid composed of the joined fluids flows through the mixed fluid flow path. Through the contact interface with An extraction step of extracting the extraction object from the fluid to be extracted into the extraction agent; and a light fluid having a small specific gravity in the internal space when the mixed fluid flows into the internal space of the separation header from the mixed fluid flow path And a heavy fluid having a specific gravity greater than that of the light fluid. The separated light fluid is led out from the internal space to the light fluid outlet, and the separated heavy fluid is drawn from the internal space to the heavy fluid. And a separation step led out to the fluid outlet part.

  In this extraction method, the mixed fluid after the extraction process is separated into light fluid and heavy fluid in the internal space of the separation header, the light fluid is led to the light fluid outlet, and the heavy fluid is heavy fluid outlet. To be derived. For this reason, for example, when the extraction agent from which the extraction target is extracted is a light fluid, the extraction agent containing the extraction target is extracted from the internal space of the separation header through the light fluid deriving unit, or the extraction target is extracted. When the extracted agent is a heavy fluid, the extractant containing the extraction object can be taken out from the internal space of the separation header through the heavy fluid outlet. Furthermore, in this extraction method, since the extraction agent containing the extraction target can be separated in the internal space of the separation header provided in the fluid circulation device, the separation of the extraction subject with respect to the fluid discharged from the fluid circulation device The work burden related to the work can be reduced.

  In the extraction method, as the fluid circulation device, a cross-section of the internal space in a direction orthogonal to the flow direction of the mixed fluid flowing from the mixed fluid flow path into the internal space of the separation header in the separation step. It is preferable to use a fluid having an equivalent diameter set so that the fluid number of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space is smaller than 1.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to make the influence of gravity acting on the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space of the separation header greater than the inertial force in the flow direction of the mixed fluid. Specifically, the Froude number Fr for the fluid mixture flowing into the internal space of the separation header is Fr = U / (D · g) ^1/2 It is expressed by the formula. Here, U is the flow velocity of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space of the separation header, D is the equivalent diameter of the cross section of the internal space in the direction orthogonal to the flow direction of the mixed fluid, and g is gravity It is acceleration. The equivalent diameter of the cross section of the internal space means the diameter of the circular cross section when assuming a circular cross section equivalent to the cross section of the internal space formed in an arbitrary shape, and the flow of the mixed fluid When the cross-sectional area of the internal space in the direction orthogonal to the direction is A, and the circumferential length of the cross-section of the internal space is u, the equivalent diameter D = 4 A / u. The case where the fluid number Fr is smaller than 1 means that the influence of gravity is more dominant in the internal space of the separation header than the inertial force in the flow direction of the fluid flowing into the internal space. For this reason, if the cross section of the internal space of the separation header has an equivalent diameter set so that the fluid number of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space is smaller than 1, the mixed flow flowing into the space The influence of gravity acting on the fluid can be made more dominant than the inertial force in the flow direction of the fluid, and as a result, the heavy fluid of the mixed fluid is sunk downward in the internal space and mixed. The fluid can be separated into a heavy fluid and a light fluid.

  In addition, the reaction method according to the present invention is a reaction method in which the first reactant and the second reactant, which are fluids that can react with each other, are mixed and the two reactants react with each other using the fluid circulation device. And introducing the first reactant into the first introduction path and introducing the second reactant into the second introduction path, and the first reactant introduced into the first introduction path. And the second reactant introduced into the second introduction path merge so as to be mixed with each other at the junction, and the mixed fluid composed of the two reactants joined together flows through the mixed fluid flow path. A reaction step of causing the first reactant and the second reactant to react with each other via a contact interface between the first reactant and the second reactant, and the mixed fluid is the mixed fluid channel. Flowing into the internal space of the separation header from The light fluid having a small specific gravity in the internal space of the air and the heavy fluid having a specific gravity larger than that of the light fluid are separated by the specific gravity difference, and the separated light fluid is led out from the internal space to the light fluid outlet, and the separated heavy fluid is separated. And a separation step in which the fluid is led out from the internal space to the heavy fluid outlet.

  In this reaction method, the mixed fluid after the reaction step is separated into a light fluid and a heavy fluid in the internal space of the separation header, the light fluid is led to the light fluid outlet, and the heavy fluid is the heavy fluid outlet. To be derived. For this reason, for example, when the reaction product is contained in the light fluid, the light fluid containing the reaction product is taken out from the internal space of the separation header through the light fluid outlet, or the reaction product is contained in the heavy fluid. In some cases, the heavy fluid containing the reaction product can be taken out from the internal space of the separation header through the heavy fluid outlet. Furthermore, in this reaction method, since the fluid containing the reaction product can be separated in the internal space of the separation header provided in the fluid circulation device, the reaction product is separated from the fluid discharged from the fluid circulation device. The work burden related to can be reduced.

  In the reaction method, as the fluid circulation device, a cross section of the internal space in a direction orthogonal to the flow direction of the mixed fluid flowing from the mixed fluid flow path into the internal space of the separation header in the separation step is provided. It is preferable to use a fluid having an equivalent diameter set so that the fluid number of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space is smaller than 1.

  According to this configuration, for the same reason as in the above extraction method, the influence of gravity acting on the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space of the separation header is made more dominant than the inertial force in the fluid flow direction. As a result, the heavy fluid of the mixed fluid can be sunk downward in the internal space, and the mixed fluid can be separated into the heavy fluid and the light fluid.

  As described above, according to the present invention, after the interaction between a plurality of fluids included in a mixed fluid occurs, the separation work for separating a desired fluid or product from the mixed fluid can be simplified. it can.

1 is a perspective view of a fluid circulation device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the surface of the board | substrate which comprises the flow-path structure of the fluid distribution apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the back surface of the board | substrate shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the flow channel structure according to the first embodiment along the line IV-IV in FIG. 2. It is a figure for demonstrating a mode that the mixed fluid which flowed into the internal space of the separation header from the 1st mixed fluid flow path separated into the heavy fluid and the light fluid in the fluid distribution apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this invention. . It is a perspective view of the fluid distribution apparatus by 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing corresponding to FIG. 4 of the flow-path structure by 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating a mode that the mixed fluid which flowed into the internal space of the separation header from the 1st mixed fluid flow path separated into the heavy fluid and the light fluid in the fluid distribution apparatus by 2nd Embodiment of this invention. .

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
First, with reference to FIGS. 1-5, the structure of the fluid distribution apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated.

  In the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment, the fluids are circulated so that the plurality of fluids are mixed with each other, thereby causing the fluids to interact with each other.

  Specifically, this fluid circulation device is used in, for example, a microreactor, a heat exchanger, or an extraction device. When this fluid circulation device is used in a microreactor, a plurality of types of reactant fluids that can react with each other are circulated and mixed in the fluid circulation device, thereby causing a chemical reaction as an interaction between the fluids. And the desired reaction product is obtained. When this fluid circulation device is used for a heat exchanger, heat is transferred from a predetermined fluid to another fluid among a plurality of types of fluids that circulate in the fluid circulation device. Further, this heat transfer may cause evaporation or condensation of the fluid. In addition, when this fluid circulation device is used in an extraction device, one fluid containing an extraction object and the other fluid as an extraction medium are circulated and mixed in the fluid circulation device. The extraction object is extracted from one fluid to the other fluid.

  The fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment includes a flow channel structure 2, a separation header 3, and a lead-out nozzle 4.

  The flow channel structure 2 circulates both fluids so that the first fluid and the second fluid are mixed with each other, and introduces the mixed fluid into an internal space 3a (described later) of the separation header 3. This is a rectangular parallelepiped structure in which 2a and a lead-out side flow passage 2b for letting out a fluid from the internal space 3a of the separation header 3 and mixing the additional fluid with the fluid are circulated. The introduction side flow passage 2a is included in the concept of the flow passage of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the flow channel structure 2 includes a plurality of substrates 5 and a plurality of sealing plates 6. These substrate 5 and sealing plate 6 are each formed by a rectangular flat plate.

  The substrate 5 has a front surface 5a (see FIG. 2) facing one side in the thickness direction and a back surface 5b (refer to FIG. 3) facing the opposite direction to the front surface 5a. A plurality of first groove portions 10 and a plurality of second groove portions 12 are formed on the surface 5a of the substrate 5 by etching. The same number of first grooves 10 and second grooves 12 are provided. The plurality of first groove portions 10 linearly extend from one end in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 5 to the other end side along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 5 to a predetermined position in the middle of the substrate 5. Further, the plurality of first groove portions 10 are arranged in parallel to each other at equal intervals in the width direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the substrate 5. The plurality of second groove portions 12 are arranged at an interval from the plurality of first groove portions 10 toward the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 5. The plurality of second groove portions 12 extend from one end to the other end side in the width direction of the substrate 5, bend on the extension line of the corresponding first groove portion 10, and be substrate in the same direction as the corresponding first groove portion 10. 5 extends to the other end in the longitudinal direction.

  A plurality of third groove portions 14, a plurality of fourth groove portions 16, and a plurality of fifth groove portions 18 are formed on the back surface 5b of the substrate 5 by etching. The same number of third grooves 14, fourth grooves 16 and fifth grooves 18 are provided, and the number thereof is the same as the number of first grooves 10 formed on the surface 5 a of the substrate 5. And each 3rd groove part 14, each 4th groove part 16, each 5th groove part 18 formed in the back surface 5b of the board | substrate 5, and each 1st groove part 10 and each 2nd groove part 12 which were formed in the surface 5a of the board | substrate 5 are shown. And correspond to each other. The plurality of third groove portions 14, the plurality of fourth groove portions 16, and the plurality of fifth groove portions 18 are arranged at intervals from the one end side to the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 5. The plurality of third groove portions 14 extend from one end in the width direction of the substrate 5 toward the other end side, bend at the positions on the back side of the corresponding first groove portions 10, and bend along the first groove portions 10 along the first groove portions 10. It extends to the other end side in the longitudinal direction. The shape of the plurality of fourth groove portions 16 is the same as the shape of the plurality of third groove portions 14. The shapes of the plurality of fifth groove portions 18 are the same as the shapes of the plurality of third groove portions 14. The plurality of fifth groove portions 18 extend from one end to the other end side in the width direction of the substrate 5 on which the end portion of the third groove portion 14 is formed, and the corresponding second groove portions 12 are bent. The second groove portion 12 is bent at a position on the back side of the substrate 5 and extends to the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 5 along a portion extending in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 5.

  The substrate 5 has a plurality of first holes 20, a plurality of second holes 22, and a plurality of third holes 24.

  Each first hole portion 20 is provided in a portion of the substrate 5 where the end portion of each third groove portion 14 that overlaps each first groove portion 10 when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the surface 5a of the substrate 5 is located. . Each first hole portion 20 penetrates the substrate 5 from the front surface 5a to the back surface 5b in the thickness direction of the substrate 5, and communicates each third groove portion 14 and the first groove portion 10 located on the front side thereof.

  Each second hole portion 22 has an end portion of each fourth groove portion 16 that overlaps an end portion of each first groove portion 10 on the second groove portion 12 side when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the surface 5a of the substrate 5 of the substrate 5. It is provided at each position. Each second hole portion 22 penetrates the substrate 5 from the front surface 5a to the back surface 5b in the thickness direction of the substrate 5, and communicates each fourth groove portion 16 and the first groove portion 10 located on the front side thereof.

  Each third hole 24 is provided in a portion of the substrate 5 where the end of each fifth groove 18 that overlaps each second groove 12 when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the surface 5a of the substrate 5 is located. . Each third hole portion 24 penetrates the substrate 5 from the front surface 5a to the back surface 5b in the thickness direction of the substrate 5, and communicates each fifth groove portion 18 and the second groove portion 12 located on the front side thereof.

  The sealing plates 6 are alternately stacked with the substrates 5. The sealing plate 6 laminated on the front side of the substrate 5 is diffusion bonded to the surface 5a so as to cover the surface 5a of the substrate 5, and the sealing plate 6 laminated on the back side of the substrate 5 The substrate 5 is diffusion bonded to the back surface 5b in a state of covering the back surface 5b. The sealing plate 6 bonded to the surface 5a of the substrate 5 is formed of the first groove portion 10, the second groove portion 12, the first hole portion 20, the second hole portion 22, and the third hole portion 24 formed on the surface 5a. Each opening is sealed. The sealing plate 6 bonded to the back surface 5b of the substrate 5 has a third groove portion 14, a fourth groove portion 16, a fifth groove portion 18, a first hole portion 20, a second hole portion 22 and a second hole portion formed on the back surface 5b. Each opening of the three holes 24 is sealed.

  The flow path structure 2 is disposed so that the longitudinal direction of the substrate 5 and the sealing plate 6 constituting the flow path structure 2, that is, the direction in which the first groove portion 10 extends coincides with the vertical direction (gravity direction). The In the flow path structure 2, a plurality of the introduction side flow passages 2 a and a plurality of the discharge side flow passages 2 b are provided. The inlet side flow passage 2a and the outlet side flow passage 2b are provided so as to correspond one to one. The outlet side flow passage 2b and the introduction side flow passage 2a are arranged in the flow path structure 2 with a space in the vertical direction. In the flow channel structure 2, a plurality of introduction side flow passages 2 a are arranged in parallel along the front surface 5 a and the back surface 5 b of the substrate 5, and a plurality of outlet side flow passages 2 b are arranged in parallel. The plurality of introduction side flow passages 2a arranged in parallel is set as one set, and the plurality of sets of introduction side flow passages 2a are arranged at equal intervals in the stacking direction of the substrate 5 and the sealing plate 6, and The plurality of outlet side flow passages 2b arranged in parallel is set as one set, and the plurality of sets of outlet side flow passages 2b are arranged at equal intervals in the stacking direction of the substrate 5 and the sealing plate 6.

  As shown in FIG. 4, each introduction side flow passage 2 a includes a first introduction passage 32, a second introduction passage 34, a first joining portion 36, and a first mixed fluid passage 38.

  The first introduction path 32 is a portion through which the first fluid is introduced and flows. The first introduction path 32 has a first introduction port 32a (see FIG. 1) for introducing the first fluid into the first introduction path 32. The first introduction port 32 a is open to the lower surface of the flow path structure 2 and is disposed at the upstream end of the first introduction path 32. The first introduction path 32 linearly extends upward from the first introduction port 32 a along the longitudinal direction of the flow path structure 2. The first introduction path 32 is on the opposite side of the first hole 20 from the second hole 22 in the first groove 10 in which the opening formed on the surface 5 a of the substrate 5 is sealed by the sealing plate 6. It is formed by the part located.

  The second introduction path 34 is a portion where the second fluid is introduced and flows. The second introduction path 34 has a second introduction port 34a (see FIG. 1) for introducing the second fluid into the second introduction path 34. The second introduction port 34 a faces one side in the stacking direction of the substrate 5 and the sealing plate 6 and the width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the flow path structure 2 in the flow path structure 2. It opens to the side surface and is disposed at the upstream end of the second introduction path 34. The second introduction path 34 extends from the side surface of the flow path structure 2 in which the second introduction port 34a is formed toward the opposite side surface, and the first introduction side flow path 2a to which the second introduction path 34 belongs. It bends at a position corresponding to the introduction path 32 and linearly extends upward along the first introduction path 32. The second introduction path 34 is formed by the third groove portion 14 in which the opening formed in the back surface 5 b of the substrate 5 is sealed by the sealing plate 6.

  The 1st junction part 36 (refer FIG. 4) is a part which joins the 1st fluid which flows through the 1st introduction path 32, and the 2nd fluid which flows through the 2nd introduction path 34, and is contained in the concept of the junction part of this invention. It is. The first junction 36 is connected to the downstream end (upper end) of the first introduction path 32 and the downstream end (upper end) of the second introduction path 34. The first joining portion 36 is sealed by a sealing plate 6 in which the opening on the surface 5a side of the substrate 5 is bonded to the surface 5a, and the opening on the back surface 5b side of the substrate 5 is bonded to the back surface 5b. It is formed by the first hole 20 sealed by the plate 6. In the first junction 36, the first fluid flows linearly from the first introduction path 32, and the second fluid that flows into the first junction 36 from the second introduction path 34 with respect to the first fluid is substantially the same. They merge while moving to the first introduction path 32 side (surface 5a side of the substrate 5) in the horizontal direction.

  The first mixed fluid flow path 38 is a portion through which a mixed fluid composed of the first fluid and the second fluid that are merged at the first merging portion 36 and mixed with each other flows. The first mixed fluid channel 38 is included in the concept of the mixed fluid channel of the present invention. The first mixed fluid flow path 38 is configured such that the mixed fluid flows in a slag flow state in which a plurality of minute slags of the first fluid and a plurality of minute slags of the second fluid are alternately arranged along the flow direction. Has been. The upstream end of the first mixed fluid flow path 38, that is, the lower end of the portion of the first mixed fluid flow path 38 provided on the surface 5 a side of the substrate 5 is the downstream end of the first merge section 36. It is connected to the part (upper end). The first mixed fluid channel 38 linearly extends upward on the extension line of the first introduction channel 32 from the first junction 36 to which the first mixed fluid channel 38 is connected, and then the substrate 5 is moved in the thickness direction. It penetrates and extends to the back surface 5b side of the substrate 5, then extends downward linearly, and then bends and extends toward the side surface of the flow path structure 2 in which the second introduction port 34a is formed. The downstream end portion of the first mixed fluid flow path 38 opens to the side surface of the flow path structure 2 in which the second introduction port 34a is formed, and is spaced upward from the second introduction port 34a. Has been placed. The mixed fluid flows in the state of slag flow in the first mixed fluid flow path 38, and the first fluid and the second fluid are mixed in the mixed fluid via the contact interface between the slag of the first fluid and the slag of the second fluid. Interaction with the fluid occurs. In addition, the first mixed fluid flow path 38 is formed between the first hole portion 20 and the second hole portion 22 in the first groove portion 10 in which the opening formed on the surface 5 a of the substrate 5 is sealed by the sealing plate 6. A portion between which the opening on the surface 5a side of the substrate 5 is sealed by the sealing plate 6 bonded to the surface 5a, and the opening on the back surface 5b side of the substrate 5 is bonded to the back surface 5b The second hole portion 22 sealed by the plate 6 and the opening formed in the back surface 5b of the substrate 5 are formed by the fourth groove portion 16 sealed by the sealing plate 6 bonded to the back surface 5b. Yes. The cross section of the first mixed fluid channel 38 perpendicular to the flow direction of the mixed fluid has an equivalent diameter of about 1 mm.

  Each outlet side flow passage 2 b includes a light fluid outlet passage 40, a light side inlet passage 42, a second junction 44, and a second mixed fluid passage 46.

  The light fluid lead-out path 40 is a flow path for leading a light fluid described later from an internal space 3a described later of the separation header 3. The light fluid lead-out path 40 is formed inside the flow channel structure 2 so as to be connected to a portion where a light fluid to be described later accumulates in an internal space 3a to be described later of the separation header 3, and from the internal space 3 a of the separation header 3. The light fluid is configured to flow in. The upstream end of the light fluid outlet path 40 opens to the side surface of the flow channel structure 2 in which the second inlet 34a and the downstream end of the first mixed fluid flow channel 38 are formed. The one mixed fluid flow path 38 is disposed with an interval upward from the downstream end thereof. The light fluid outlet passage 40 has the same structure as the second introduction passage 34. Specifically, the light fluid lead-out path 40 extends from the side surface of the flow channel structure 2 in which the upstream end portion thereof is formed to the opposite side surface, and the lead-out side circulation to which the light fluid lead-out path 40 belongs. It is bent on the extension line of the first introduction path 32 of the introduction side flow path 2a corresponding to the path 2b and linearly extends upward. The light fluid lead-out path 40 is formed by a fifth groove portion 18 in which an opening formed in the back surface 5b of the substrate 5 is sealed by a sealing plate 6 joined to the back surface 5b.

  The light-side introduction path 42 is a portion where additional fluid for mixing with the light fluid is introduced and flows. The additional fluid is not limited to the type of fluid different from the first fluid and the second fluid, but is the same type of fluid as the first fluid or the same type of fluid as the second fluid. Also good. The light side introduction path 42 has a light side introduction port (not shown) for introducing a fluid into the light side introduction path 42. The light side inlet is disposed at the upstream end of the light side inlet 42, and the downstream end of the second inlet 34 a and the first mixed fluid channel 38 in the flow channel structure 2. And it is formed so that it may open in the side surface on the opposite side to the side surface in which the upstream edge part of the light fluid derivation way 40 was formed. The light side introduction path 42 extends from the side surface of the flow path structure 2 in which the light side introduction port is formed toward the opposite side surface, and the light fluid introduction path of the outlet side flow passage 2b to which the light side introduction path 42 belongs. It is bent at a point where 40 is bent and extends linearly upward. The light-side introduction path 42 is formed by the second groove portion 12 in which an opening formed in the surface 5a of the substrate 5 is sealed by a sealing plate 6 joined to the surface 5a. The light side introduction path 42 is connected to the light fluid lead-out path 40 so that the additional fluid introduced into the light side introduction path 42 joins the light fluid flowing through the light fluid lead-out path 40. Specifically, the light side introduction path 42 is connected to the light fluid lead-out path 40 via the second junction 44.

  The second merging portion 44 is a portion that joins the light fluid flowing through the light fluid outlet passage 40 and the additional fluid flowing through the light-side introduction passage 42. The second joining portion 44 is connected to the downstream end portion of the light fluid outlet passage 40 and the downstream end portion of the light side introduction passage 42. The second joining portion 44 is sealed by a sealing plate 6 in which the opening on the surface 5a side of the substrate 5 is bonded to the surface 5a, and the opening on the back surface 5b side of the substrate 5 is bonded to the back surface 5b. The third hole 24 is sealed by the plate 6. In the second merging portion 44, the light fluid that has flowed into the second merging portion 44 from the light fluid lead-out passage 40 with respect to the additional fluid that has flowed in from the light-side introduction passage 42 is substantially light in the horizontal direction. It merges while moving to (the surface 5a side of the substrate 5).

  The second mixed fluid channel 46 is a channel through which a mixed fluid composed of the light fluid and the additional fluid that are merged and mixed in the second merging portion 44 flows. The second mixed fluid channel 46 is configured such that the mixed fluid flowing through the second mixed fluid channel 46 flows in a slag flow state. The upstream end of the second mixed fluid flow path 46, that is, the lower end of the second mixed fluid flow path 46 is connected to the downstream end (upper end) of the second merging section 44. The second mixed fluid channel 46 linearly extends upward from the second junction 44 where the second mixed fluid channel 46 is connected. The downstream end of the second mixed fluid channel 46 opens to the upper surface of the channel structure 2 (the surface facing the side opposite to the surface where the first introduction port 32a is formed). The mixed fluid flowing through the second mixed fluid flow path 46 flows downstream in the state of a slag flow, and interaction between the fluids constituting the mixed fluid occurs in the mixed fluid. The cross section of the second mixed fluid channel 46 perpendicular to the flow direction of the mixed fluid has an equivalent diameter of about 1 mm. Further, the second mixed fluid channel 46 is formed by a portion of the second groove portion 12 in which the opening formed in the surface 5 a of the substrate 5 is sealed by the sealing plate 6 and located above the third hole portion 24. Is formed.

  The separation header 3 (see FIG. 1) has a specific gravity for the fluid flowing through the introduction side flow passage 2a, specifically, the mixed fluid of the first fluid and the second fluid flowing through the first mixed fluid flow path 38. The light fluid having a small specific gravity and the heavy fluid having a larger specific gravity than the light fluid are separated by a specific gravity difference. The separation header 3 is attached to a side surface of the outer surface of the flow channel structure 2 where the downstream end of the first mixed fluid flow channel 38 and the upstream end of the light fluid outlet passage 40 are open. Yes. Specifically, the separation header 3 has a side surface of the flow channel structure 2 so as to cover the downstream ends of all the first mixed fluid flow channels 38 and the upstream ends of all the light fluid outlet channels 40. Is attached. In addition, the separation header 3 is an internal space that communicates with the downstream ends of all the first mixed fluid channels 38 provided in the channel structure 2 and the upstream ends of all the light fluid outlet channels 40. 3a (see FIG. 5).

The internal space 3a is a space that separates the mixed fluid that has flowed into the internal space 3a from the first mixed fluid flow path 38 by a specific gravity difference. Specifically, the cross section of the internal space 3a in the direction orthogonal to the flow direction of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a (the inflow direction of the mixed fluid) is changed from the first mixed fluid flow path 38 to the internal space 3a. The mixed fluid that has flowed in has a cross-sectional shape that is naturally separated into a light fluid and a heavy fluid by a specific gravity difference. Specifically, the cross section of the internal space 3a in the direction orthogonal to the flow direction of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a is such that the fluid number of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a is less than one. It has a set equivalent diameter. More specifically, assuming that the fluid number of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a is Fr, the fluid number Fr is expressed by the following equation (1), and the internal space so that the fluid number Fr is smaller than 1. The equivalent diameter D of the cross section perpendicular to the flow direction of the mixed fluid flowing into 3a is set. Fr = U / (D · g) ^1/2 (1)

  In this formula (1), U is the flow velocity of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a, and g is the gravitational acceleration. Note that, in the substantial use range of the fluid circulation device, the flow rate of the fluid flowing in the fluid circulation device is about 10 ml / min or less per one flow passage. Since the mixed fluid flows into the internal space 3a from the first mixed fluid flow paths 38 of all the introduction side flow passages 2a formed in the flow path structure 2, the flow rate of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a is The total flow rate of the mixed fluid flowing through the first mixed fluid flow path 38 of all the introduction side flow passages 2a is obtained. For example, when 100 introduction side flow passages 2a are formed in the flow path structure 2, the flow rate of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a is approximately within the practical use range of the fluid circulation device. 1000 ml / min. The flow velocity U of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a is obtained based on the total flow rate of such mixed fluid. When the mixed fluid is circulated at a flow rate in the substantial use range of such a fluid circulation device, if the equivalent diameter L of the internal space 3a is about 10 mm or more, the fluid number Fr is more than 1. Becomes smaller.

  The fact that the fluid number Fr is smaller than 1 means that in the internal space 3a, the influence of gravity acting on the mixed fluid is more dominant than the inertial force in the flow direction of the mixed fluid that has flowed in. means. For this reason, the heavy fluid out of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a is more strongly affected by gravity than the inertial force in the flow direction and sinks downward. As a result, the mixed fluid becomes a heavy fluid and a light fluid. Separate naturally. Then, as shown in FIG. 5, the heavy fluid is accumulated in the lower region of the internal space 3a, and the light fluid is in a state of floating above the heavy fluid. The downstream end of the first mixed fluid flow path 38 is connected to a portion of the internal space 3a of the separation header 3 where heavy fluid accumulates, that is, a lower region of the internal space 3a. Further, the upstream end portion of the light fluid lead-out path 40 is a portion where the light fluid is accumulated in the internal space 3a of the separation header 3, that is, the internal space 3a located above the central position in the vertical direction of the internal space 3a. It is connected to the upper area. In the state where the light fluid and the heavy fluid are vertically separated in the internal space 3a as shown in FIG. 5, the light fluid of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a from the first mixed fluid flow path 38 is It passes through the layer of heavy fluid accumulated in the internal space 3a and floats on the layer of heavy fluid.

  The outlet nozzle 4 is provided in the separation header 3. The derivation nozzle 4 is for derivation of the heavy fluid separated in the internal space 3a of the separation header 3, and is included in the concept of the heavy fluid derivation unit of the present invention. The lead-out nozzle 4 is provided in the separation header 3 so as to be connected to a portion of the internal space 3a where heavy fluid accumulates, that is, a lower region of the internal space 3a located below the central position in the vertical direction of the internal space 3a. It has been. A pipe (not shown) is connected to the lead-out nozzle 4, and heavy fluid is discharged from the internal space 3a through the lead-out nozzle 4 and the pipe connected thereto.

  As described above, the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment configured as described above is used in a microreactor, a heat exchanger, an extraction device, or the like. The case where the fluid circulation device according to the form is used as an extraction device and the case where it is used as a microreactor (reaction device) will be described.

  First, when using the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment as an extraction device, that is, an extraction method using the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment will be described.

  In this extraction method, using the fluid circulation device, a fluid to be extracted including an extraction target is mixed with an extraction agent that is a fluid for extracting the extraction target from the fluid to be extracted. The extraction object is extracted into the extraction agent.

  Specifically, the fluid to be extracted is introduced from each first introduction port 32a to each first introduction passage 32 at a predetermined flow rate (flow velocity), and the extractant is introduced from each second introduction port 34a to each second introduction passage 34. At a predetermined flow rate (flow velocity) (fluid introduction step).

  The fluid to be extracted introduced into each first introduction path 32 flows through the first introduction path 32 and flows into the first joining portion 36, and the extractant introduced into each second introduction path 34 is the first. 2 flows in the introduction path 34 and flows into the first junction 36. Then, the fluid to be extracted and the extractant merge so as to be mixed with each other in the first merge unit 36. The mixed fluid composed of the fluid to be extracted and the extracting agent joined at the first joining portion 36 flows into the first mixed fluid flow path 38, and a plurality of minute slags of the fluid to be extracted is passed through the first mixed fluid flow path 38. And a plurality of minute slags of the extractant flow to the downstream side in a slag flow state alternately arranged along the flow direction of the mixed fluid. In this mixed fluid, an extraction object is extracted from the extraction fluid to the extraction agent via the contact interface between the extraction fluid slag and the extraction agent slag (extraction step).

  Thereafter, the mixed fluid flows from each first mixed fluid flow path 38 into the internal space 3a of the separation header 3 and is separated into a light fluid and a heavy fluid by a specific gravity difference in the internal space 3a, and the separated heavy fluid is separated. The fluid is led out from the internal space 3a through the lead-out nozzle 4, and the separated light fluid is led out from the internal space 3a to each light fluid lead-out path 40 (separation step). Here, for example, when the specific gravity of the extractant is larger than that of the fluid to be extracted, the extractant sinks downward as a heavy fluid in the internal space 3a, and the fluid to be extracted floats above the extractant as a light fluid It becomes. The extraction agent as the heavy fluid that sinks downward contains a large amount of the extraction object, and the content of the extraction object in the extraction fluid as the light fluid that floats above the extraction agent is the first introduction. It is smaller than the content rate of the extraction object in the fluid to be extracted introduced into the passage 32.

  The light fluid led out from the internal space 3 a to each light fluid lead-out path 40 flows into the second junction 44 from the light fluid lead-out path 40. On the other hand, a new additional extractant is introduced from each light side inlet to each light side introduction path 42 at a predetermined flow rate, and the extractant flows from the light side introduction path 42 into the second junction 44 to form a light fluid. Merge.

  The mixed fluid composed of the light fluid and the extractant that are merged and mixed in the second merging portion 44 flows into the second mixed fluid flow path 46, and a plurality of minute fluids of the fluid to be extracted are passed through the second mixed fluid flow path 46. Slag and a plurality of minute slags of the extractant flow to the downstream side in the state of slag flow alternately arranged along the flow direction. In this mixed fluid, the extraction object is further extracted from the fluid to be extracted into the extraction agent. Finally, the mixed fluid is discharged from the downstream end of each second mixed fluid channel 46 and collected.

  As described above, the extraction method using the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment is performed.

  Next, a case where the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment is used as a microreactor, that is, a reaction method using the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment will be described.

  In this reaction method, using the fluid flow device, the fluid of the first reactant and the fluid of the second reactant that can react with each other are mixed and the two reactants are reacted.

  Specifically, the first reactant is introduced from each first introduction port 32a into each first introduction path 32 at a predetermined flow rate (flow velocity), and the second reactant is introduced from each second introduction port 34a to each second. It introduces into the introduction channel 34 at a predetermined flow rate (flow velocity) (reactant introduction step).

  The first reactant introduced into each first introduction path 32 flows through the first introduction path 32 and flows into the first junction 36, and the second reactant introduced into each second introduction path 34 is Then, it flows through the second introduction path 34 and flows into the first junction 36. Then, the first reactant and the second reactant are joined so as to be mixed with each other in the first joining portion 36. The mixed fluid composed of the first reactant and the second reactant joined at the first junction 36 flows into the first mixed fluid channel 38, and a plurality of the first reactants are passed through the first mixed fluid channel 38. And a plurality of minute slags of the second reactant flow downstream in a state of slag flow alternately arranged along the flow direction of the mixed fluid. In this mixed fluid, the first reactant and the second reactant react with each other through the contact interface between the slag of the first reactant and the slag of the second reactant, and a reaction product is generated ( Reaction step).

  Thereafter, the mixed fluid flows from each first mixed fluid flow path 38 into the internal space 3a of the separation header 3 and is separated into a light fluid and a heavy fluid by a specific gravity difference in the internal space 3a, and the separated heavy fluid is separated. The fluid is led out from the internal space 3a through the lead-out nozzle 4, and the separated light fluid is led out from the internal space 3a to each light fluid lead-out path 40 (separation step). Here, for example, when the specific gravity of the fluid of the reaction product is larger than the specific gravity of the other components in the mixed fluid, the fluid of the reaction product sinks downward as a heavy fluid in the internal space 3a. The component fluid floats as a light fluid above the reaction product fluid. This light fluid consists of the unreacted first and second reactants.

  The light fluid led out from the internal space 3 a to each light fluid lead-out path 40 flows into the second junction 44 from the light fluid lead-out path 40. On the other hand, an additional second reactant is introduced from each light-side inlet to each light-side introduction passage 42 at a predetermined flow rate, and the second reactant is caused to flow from the light-side introduction passage 42 to the second junction 44. Combine with light fluid.

  The mixed fluid composed of the light fluid and the second reactant added after being merged at the second merging portion 44 flows into the second mixed fluid channel 46, and is unreacted in the second mixed fluid channel 46. In the state of a slag flow in which a plurality of minute slags of the first reactant and a plurality of minute slags in which an additional second reactant is added to the unreacted second reactant are alternately arranged along the flow direction Flows downstream. In this mixed fluid, further reaction between the first reactant and the second reactant occurs, and a reaction product is generated. Finally, the mixed fluid containing the reaction product is discharged and collected from the downstream end of each second mixed fluid channel 46.

  As described above, the reaction method using the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment is performed.

  In the first embodiment, the mixed fluid flows in the first mixed fluid flow path 38 in a slag flow state in which a plurality of slags of the first fluid and a plurality of slags of the second fluid are alternately arranged. The area of the contact interface between the first fluid and the second fluid per volume can be increased to promote the interaction between the first fluid and the second fluid. Specifically, in the extraction method using the fluid flow device according to the first embodiment, the area of the contact interface between the fluid to be extracted as the first fluid and the extractant as the second fluid is increased, and the fluid to be extracted The extraction of the extraction object from the slag into the extractant can be promoted. Moreover, in the reaction method using the fluid flow device according to the first embodiment, the area of the contact interface between the first reactant as the first fluid and the second reactant as the second fluid is increased, and both of these reactions are performed. Reaction between agents can be promoted.

  In the fluid flow device of the first embodiment, the cross section in the direction orthogonal to the inflow direction of the mixed fluid in the internal space 3a of the separation header 3 connected to the downstream side of the first mixed fluid flow path 38 is the first mixed fluid. The mixed fluid that has flowed into the internal space 3a from the flow path 38 has a cross-sectional shape such that the light fluid and the heavy fluid are separated by a specific gravity difference. Specifically, the cross section of the internal space 3a has an equivalent diameter set so that the fluid number Fr of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a is smaller than 1. For this reason, the influence of gravity acting on the mixed fluid that has flowed into the internal space 3a is stronger than the inertial force in the flow direction of the mixed fluid, and the mixed fluid is a light fluid and a heavy fluid in the internal space 3a. And naturally separated by specific gravity difference. Since the outlet nozzle 4 is connected to the portion of the internal space 3a of the separation header 3 where the heavy fluid is accumulated, the heavy fluid separated in the internal space 3a is led out of the fluid circulation device through the outlet nozzle 4. be able to. For this reason, if the heavy fluid contains a substance to be separated and removed from the mixed fluid, or if the heavy fluid contains a substance to be obtained from the mixed fluid, the substance is removed from the internal space 3a through the outlet nozzle 4. The contained heavy fluid can be led out of the fluid circulation device. Specifically, in the extraction method using the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment, when the extraction agent that extracts the extraction target from the fluid to be extracted is a heavy fluid, the extraction includes the extraction target. The agent can be led out of the fluid circulation device through the outlet nozzle 4. In the reaction method using the fluid flow device according to the first embodiment, when the fluid containing the reaction product generated by the reaction between the first reactant and the second reactant is a heavy fluid, The fluid containing the reaction product can be led out of the fluid circulation device through the outlet nozzle 4.

  Furthermore, in the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment, the mixed fluid is separated into the heavy fluid and the light fluid in the internal space 3a of the separation header 3 included in the fluid circulation device, and the heavy fluid is led out through the outlet nozzle 4. Therefore, when the heavy fluid is a desired fluid, it is not necessary to perform separation work on the heavy fluid after being derived from the fluid circulation device. In addition, when a desired product is contained in the heavy fluid or the light fluid separated in the internal space 3a of the separation header 3, the separation of the product from the light fluid or the heavy fluid is temporarily performed by a fluid circulation device. When a plurality of types of fluids and products flowing inside are discharged from the fluid circulation device in a mixed state, compared to the case of separating the products from the discharged fluid, it can be performed with a simple separation operation. it can.

  Further, in the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment, the second merging section is configured so that the light side introduction path 42 merges the additional fluid flowing through the light side introduction path 42 with the light fluid flowing through the light fluid lead-out path 40. Since it is connected to the light fluid lead-out path 40 via 44, an additional fluid can be merged and interacted with the light fluid. In addition, in the first embodiment, since the additional fluid can be merged with the light fluid separated from the heavy fluid in the internal space 3a of the separation header 3, for example, the light fluid and the additional fluid in the mixed fluid. When a substance that reduces the efficiency of interaction with the liquid is contained and the majority of the substance is contained in the heavy fluid separated in the internal space 3a, it is added to the light fluid with the reduced content of the substance. These fluids can be combined to interact with each other. As a result, the efficiency of the interaction between the light fluid and the additional fluid can be improved. Specifically, in the extraction method using the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment, the extraction efficiency decreases when the mixed fluid contains a large amount of the extraction agent after extracting the extraction object. Therefore, the extraction efficiency can be improved by joining a new extractant as an additional fluid to the light fluid after the extracted extractant is separated as a heavy fluid. Further, in the reaction method using the fluid flow device according to the first embodiment, when the mixed fluid contains many reaction products generated by the reaction between the first reactant and the second reactant, Since the reaction efficiency is lowered, the reaction efficiency can be improved by joining a new second reactant as an additional fluid to the light fluid after separating the heavy fluid containing the reaction product.

  Moreover, in this 1st Embodiment, since the edge part of the downstream of the 1st mixed fluid flow path 38 is connected to the lower area | region where heavy fluid accumulates among the internal spaces 3a of the separation header 3, it is light in the internal space 3a. In a state where the fluid and the heavy fluid are vertically separated, the light fluid out of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a from the first mixed fluid flow path 38 becomes a heavy fluid accumulated in the lower region of the internal space 3a. Passes through the layers and floats on the layer of heavy fluid. At this time, the contact interface between the light fluid and the heavy fluid is updated, and the interaction between the light fluid and the heavy fluid can be promoted in the internal space 3a.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, with reference to FIGS. 6-8, the structure of the fluid distribution apparatus by 2nd Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated.

  In the fluid circulation device according to the second embodiment, the fluid circulation device according to the first embodiment is arranged upside down. Specifically, in the fluid circulation device according to the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the surface of the flow channel structure 2 on which the first introduction port 32a is formed faces upward, and the flow channel structure 2 Of these, the surface on which the downstream end of the second mixed fluid flow path 46 is formed faces downward.

  And in this 2nd Embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the edge part of the downstream of the 1st mixed fluid flow path 38 is a part where the light fluid accumulates among the internal space 3a of the separation header 3, ie, internal space 3a. It is connected to the upper area. Further, in this second embodiment, each outlet side flow passage 2 b has a heavy fluid outlet passage 50 instead of the light fluid outlet passage 40. The heavy fluid lead-out path 50 is for leading the heavy fluid separated in the internal space 3 a of the separation header 3. The heavy fluid outlet channel 50 has a structure in which the light fluid outlet channel 40 is turned upside down. The heavy fluid outlet path 50 is formed inside the flow path structure 2 so as to be connected to a portion where the heavy fluid accumulates in the internal space 3 a of the separation header 3. Specifically, the upstream end of the heavy fluid outlet passage 50 is connected to a portion of the internal space 3a of the separation header 3 where heavy fluid accumulates, that is, a lower region of the internal space 3a. The heavy fluid flows into the heavy fluid lead-out path 50.

  Further, in the second embodiment, each outlet side flow passage 2 b has a heavy side introduction passage 52 instead of the light side introduction passage 42. The heavy side introduction path 52 is a portion where an additional fluid for mixing with the heavy fluid is introduced and flows. The additional fluid for mixing with the heavy fluid is not limited to the type of fluid different from the first fluid and the second fluid, but is the same type of fluid as the first fluid or the same type of fluid as the second fluid. It may be. The heavy side introduction path 52 has a structure in which the light side introduction path 42 is turned upside down. The heavy side introduction path 52 is connected to the heavy fluid outlet path 50 so that the additional fluid flowing through the heavy side inlet path 52 merges with the heavy fluid flowing through the heavy fluid outlet path 50. Specifically, the heavy side introduction path 52 is connected to the heavy fluid outlet path 50 via the second junction 44.

  In contrast to the additional fluid that has flowed from the heavy side introduction path 52 into the second merging portion 44, the heavy fluid that has flowed into the second merging section 44 from the heavy fluid lead-out path 50 in the substantially horizontal direction is the heavy side introduction path 52. Merge while moving to the side. The mixed fluid composed of the heavy fluid and the additional fluid that are merged and mixed in the second merging portion 44 flows into the second mixed fluid channel 46, and the slag flow is generated in the second mixed fluid channel 46. It flows downstream. Interaction occurs in the mixed fluid. Then, the mixed fluid is discharged from the downstream end of the second mixed fluid channel 46 to the lower side of the channel structure 2 and collected.

  Moreover, in this 2nd Embodiment, the derivation | leading-out nozzle 4 in the said 1st Embodiment is used as a nozzle for guide | inducing a light fluid from the internal space 3a of the separation header 3. FIG. That is, in the second embodiment, the derivation nozzle 4 is included in the concept of the light fluid derivation unit of the present invention. Specifically, in the second embodiment, the outlet nozzle 4 is connected to the separation header 3 so as to be connected to a portion of the internal space 3a where the light fluid separated in the internal space 3a accumulates, that is, an upper region of the internal space 3a. The light fluid separated from the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3 a is led out to the outside through the lead-out nozzle 4.

  In the fluid circulation device according to the second embodiment, since the outlet nozzle 4 is provided in the separation header 3 so as to be connected to a portion of the inner space 3a where the light fluid is accumulated, the outlet fluid is separated from the inner space 3a. 4 to the outside of the fluid circulation device. For this reason, when the light fluid contains a substance to be separated and removed from the mixed fluid, or when the light fluid contains a substance to be obtained from the mixed fluid, the light fluid containing the substance from the internal space 3a through the outlet nozzle 4 is used. The fluid can be led out of the fluid circulation device.

  Further, in the fluid circulation device according to the second embodiment, the heavy side introduction path 52 joins the additional fluid flowing through the heavy side introduction path 52 to the heavy fluid flowing through the heavy fluid outlet path 50. Since it connects with the heavy fluid derivation way 50 via the 2nd confluence | merging part 44, an additional fluid can be merged and interacted with a heavy fluid. In addition, in the second embodiment, the additional fluid can be merged with the heavy fluid separated from the light fluid in the internal space 3a of the separation header 3. Therefore, for example, the heavy fluid and the additional fluid can be added to the mixed fluid. When a substance that reduces the efficiency of interaction with the fluid is contained and most of the substance is contained in the light fluid separated in the internal space 3a, the heavy fluid with a reduced content of the substance is used. Additional fluids can be combined and allowed to interact. For this reason, the efficiency of the interaction between the heavy fluid and the additional fluid can be improved.

  In the second embodiment, since the downstream end of the first mixed fluid flow path 38 is connected to the upper region of the inner space 3a of the separation header 3 where the light fluid is accumulated, as shown in FIG. In a state where the light fluid and the heavy fluid are vertically separated in the internal space 3a, the heavy fluid out of the mixed fluid flowing into the internal space 3a from the first mixed fluid flow path 38 enters the upper region of the internal space 3a. It passes through the layer of accumulated light heavy fluid and sinks under the layer of light fluid. At this time, the contact interface between the light fluid and the heavy fluid is updated, and the interaction between the light fluid and the heavy fluid can be promoted in the internal space 3a.

  The effects of the second embodiment other than those described above are the same as the effects of the first embodiment.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description of the embodiments but by the scope of claims for patent, and further includes meanings equivalent to the scope of claims for patent and all modifications within the scope.

  For example, the structure of each part of the flow path formed in the flow path structure may be a structure other than the structure described above.

  For example, the first introduction path may extend obliquely or bend with respect to the direction in which the first mixed fluid flow path extends. The second introduction path may extend linearly without being bent. In this case, the second introduction path may extend in a direction parallel to the direction in which the first introduction path extends, a diagonal direction, or a direction orthogonal to the direction. Further, the first mixed fluid channel does not need to be formed so as to go around from the front side to the back side of the substrate as described above, and may be formed in one surface of the substrate. In this case, various shapes can be adopted as the shape of the first mixed fluid channel along the flow direction of the mixed fluid. Further, the light fluid lead-out path, the heavy fluid lead-out path, the light-side introduction path, and the heavy-side introduction path may also be formed in various shapes other than those described above. Further, the second mixed fluid channel may be bent in the flow direction of the mixed fluid or may be folded a predetermined number of times.

  The outlet side flow passage may not include the light side introduction path, the heavy side introduction path, the second merging portion, and the second mixed fluid flow path. That is, in the first embodiment, even if the light fluid outlet path extends to the upper end of the flow path structure and the downstream end of the light fluid outlet path opens to the upper surface of the flow path structure. Well, in the case of the second embodiment, the heavy fluid outlet path extends to the lower end of the flow path structure, and the downstream end of the heavy fluid outlet path opens to the lower surface of the flow path structure. May be.

Further, as a reference example, the flow channel structure is not limited to a structure in which a large number of substrates 5 and sealing plates 6 are stacked as described above, and forms an introduction side flow passage and a discharge side flow passage. For example, it may be composed of a structure in which only one sealing plate is bonded to each of the front and back surfaces of a single substrate on which a groove is formed.

  Further, in the flow path structure, a temperature control flow path for flowing a temperature adjusting fluid may be disposed between the flow paths adjacent in the stacking direction of the substrate and the sealing plate.

  The first fluid, the second fluid, and the additional fluid may be liquid or gas, respectively.

  Further, the fluid circulation device may be arranged such that the longitudinal direction of the flow channel structure (the direction in which the first introduction path extends) is slightly inclined with respect to the vertical direction.

  In addition, without providing the outlet nozzle in the separation header, both the light fluid outlet passage and the heavy fluid outlet passage connected to the internal space of the separator header may be formed in the flow path structure.

  Further, the flow state of the mixed fluid flowing in the first mixed fluid channel 38 and the second mixed fluid channel 46 is not limited to the slag flow as described above. The flow state of the mixed fluid flowing in the mixed fluid flow paths 38 and 46 is determined by the physical properties and flow velocity of the fluid constituting the mixed fluid. Therefore, the mixed fluid flowing in the mixed fluid flow paths 38 and 46 may exhibit a flow state in which a plurality of types of fluids included in the mixed fluid flow in a laminar flow state. In this case, the fluids interact with each other through the contact interface between the laminar flows of the fluids constituting the fluid mixture in the fluid mixture channels 38 and 46.

  Moreover, the introduction side flow path may consist only of the first mixed fluid flow path. Specifically, the first mixed fluid flow path extends so that the end of the first mixed fluid flow path opposite to the separation header side opens to the outer surface of the flow path structure, and the first mixed fluid flow An end of the path opposite to the separation header may be an inlet for introducing fluid into the first mixed fluid flow path. In this case, a mixed fluid prepared by mixing a plurality of types of fluids outside the fluid circulation device is introduced into the first mixed fluid channel through the introduction port, and flows through the first mixed fluid channel. It may be introduced into the internal space of the separation header.

2 Channel structure 2a Introduction side flow passage (flow passage)
3 Separation header 3a Internal space 4 Deriving nozzle (Heavy fluid outlet, Light fluid outlet)
32 1st introduction path 34 2nd introduction path 36 1st junction part (joint part)
38 First Mixed Fluid Channel (Mixed Fluid Channel)
40 Light fluid outlet (light fluid outlet)
42 Light side introduction path 50 Heavy fluid outlet (heavy fluid outlet)
52 Heavy side introduction path

Claims (8)

A fluid circulation device for circulating a fluid,
A flow path structure in which a plurality of flow passages for circulating a fluid are formed,
A separation header attached to the flow path structure and separating the fluid flowing through each flow passage into a light fluid having a small specific gravity and a heavy fluid having a specific gravity larger than that of the light fluid by a specific gravity difference;
A light fluid deriving unit for deriving the light fluid separated by the separation header from the separation header;
A heavy fluid deriving unit for deriving the heavy fluid separated by the separation header from the separation header;
The flow path structure is formed by laminating a plurality of plates including a plurality of substrates on which the individual flow paths are respectively formed.
Each of the flow passages has a mixed fluid flow path through which a mixed fluid composed of a plurality of types of fluids mixed with each other flows, and the downstream end of the mixed fluid flow path of each of the flow paths has a plurality of the plates. Each opening on a specific side surface of the flow channel structure formed by the edge,
The separation header is attached to the specific side surface so as to cover the downstream ends of all the mixed fluid flow paths that are open on the specific side surface,
The separation header have a inner space in which the fluid mixture flowing from the mixing fluid flow path has a downstream end communicating with the mixing fluid channel is separated by specific gravity difference and lighter fluid and heavy fluid and,
The light fluid deriving unit is connected to a portion of the internal space where the light fluid is accumulated, and the heavy fluid deriving unit is connected to a portion of the internal space where the heavy fluid is accumulated. Each of the flow passages includes a first introduction path through which a first fluid is introduced, a second introduction path through which a second fluid is introduced, an end portion on the downstream side of the first introduction path, and the second introduction path. A merging section that is connected to the downstream end and merges the first fluid that flows through the first introduction path and the second fluid that flows through the second introduction path. ,
The mixed fluid flow path is connected to the downstream side of the merging portion, and the mixed fluid composed of the first fluid and the second fluid that flow together at the merging portion and mix with each other flows into the mixed fluid flow path. The fluid circulation device according to claim 1. The light fluid lead-out portion is a light fluid lead-out path that is formed inside the flow channel structure so as to be connected to a portion of the internal space where the light fluid is accumulated, and into which the light fluid flows from the internal space.
A fluid side to be mixed with the light fluid is introduced into the flow path structure, and the light side connected to the light fluid lead-out path is joined to the light fluid flowing through the light fluid lead-out path. The fluid circulation device according to claim 1, wherein an introduction path is formed. The heavy fluid outlet part is formed inside the flow channel structure so as to be connected to a portion of the internal space where the heavy fluid accumulates, and the heavy fluid outlet path through which the heavy fluid flows from the internal space And
A fluid for mixing with the heavy fluid is introduced into the flow path structure, and the heavy fluid lead-out path is joined to the heavy fluid flowing through the heavy fluid lead-out path. The fluid circulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a heavy-side introduction passage that is connected to the fluid is formed. Using the fluid circulation device according to claim 2, a fluid to be extracted containing an extraction target and an extractant that is a fluid for extracting the extraction target from the fluid to be extracted are mixed, and the fluid to be extracted An extraction method for extracting the extraction object from the extraction agent,
One fluid that is one of the fluid to be extracted and the extractant is introduced into the first introduction path, and another fluid that is the other fluid of the fluid to be extracted and the extractant is A fluid introduction step for introducing into the second introduction path;
The one fluid introduced into the first introduction path and the other fluid introduced into the second introduction path merge so as to be mixed with each other in the merge portion, and a mixed fluid composed of the merged fluids is the mixed fluid flow An extraction step of extracting the extraction object from the extraction fluid to the extraction agent through a contact interface between the extraction fluid and the extraction agent in the mixed fluid while flowing through the path;
The mixed fluid flows into the internal space of the separation header from the mixed fluid flow path and separates into a light fluid having a small specific gravity in the internal space and a heavy fluid having a specific gravity larger than the light fluid by a specific gravity difference; A separation step in which the separated light fluid is led out from the internal space to the light fluid lead-out unit, and the separated heavy fluid is led out from the internal space to the heavy fluid lead-out unit.   As the fluid circulation device, a cross section of the internal space in a direction orthogonal to the flow direction of the mixed fluid flowing from the mixed fluid flow path into the internal space of the separation header in the separation step is the internal space. 6. The extraction method according to claim 5, wherein a fluid having an equivalent diameter set so that the fluid number of the mixed fluid flowing in is smaller than one is used. A reaction method using the fluid flow device according to claim 2 to mix a first reactant and a second reactant composed of fluids capable of reacting with each other and reacting both the reactants.
A reactant introduction step of introducing the first reactant into the first introduction path and introducing the second reactant into the second introduction path;
The first reactant introduced into the first introduction passage and the second reactant introduced into the second introduction passage merge so as to be mixed with each other at the joining portion, and a mixed fluid composed of the joined two reactants Flows through the mixed fluid flow path, and causes the first reactant and the second reactant to react with each other through the contact interface between the first reactant and the second reactant in the mixed fluid. A reaction process;
The mixed fluid flows into the internal space of the separation header from the mixed fluid flow path and separates into a light fluid having a small specific gravity in the internal space and a heavy fluid having a specific gravity larger than the light fluid by a specific gravity difference; A separation step in which the separated light fluid is led out from the internal space to the light fluid deriving unit, and the separated heavy fluid is led out from the internal space to the heavy fluid deriving unit.   As the fluid circulation device, a cross section of the internal space in a direction orthogonal to the flow direction of the mixed fluid flowing from the mixed fluid flow path into the internal space of the separation header in the separation step is the internal space. The reaction method according to claim 7, wherein a fluid having an equivalent diameter set so that a fluid number of the mixed fluid flowing in is smaller than 1 is used.

Images