Mass Transfer Coefficient Calculator

Model film transfer quickly using practical engineering inputs. Switch methods, visualize trends, and export results. Make diffusion calculations easier for studies, design, and reporting.

Calculator Inputs

Use one of three methods: direct flux data, molar rate with area, or the Sherwood relation. Results appear above this form after submission.

Plotly Graph

The chart shows predicted flux versus concentration difference using the calculated mass transfer coefficient.

Formula Used

k = N / ΔC

Use this when molar flux and the driving concentration difference are known. The result gives the individual mass transfer coefficient.

N = ṅ / A

When only molar rate and interfacial area are known, convert them to flux first. Then evaluate k from the first relation.

k = Sh × D / L

Use this dimensionless correlation when Sherwood number, diffusivity, and characteristic length are available from theory or experiments.

Variable meanings

  • k = mass transfer coefficient
  • N = molar flux
  • ΔC = concentration difference across the film
  • = molar transfer rate
  • A = transfer area
  • Sh = Sherwood number
  • D = molecular diffusivity
  • L = characteristic length

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter a case name and optional temperature for reporting clarity.
  2. Select the method that matches your available data.
  3. Provide inputs using any supported engineering units.
  4. Submit the form to calculate the coefficient.
  5. Review the result panel above the form for converted values, resistance, and supporting outputs.
  6. Use the chart to inspect how flux changes with concentration difference.
  7. Download CSV for spreadsheets or PDF for quick documentation.

Example Data Table

Case Method Key Inputs Calculated k (m/s) Comment
Absorption test A Flux and ΔC N = 0.012 mol/m²·s, ΔC = 2.5 mol/m³ 0.004800 Useful for direct lab measurements.
Membrane run B Rate and area ṅ = 1.8 mol/s, A = 0.65 m², ΔC = 220 mol/m³ 0.012587 Converts bulk throughput into flux first.
Channel flow C Sherwood relation Sh = 125, D = 1.9×10⁻⁵ m²/s, L = 0.05 m 0.047500 Best when correlations describe the flow field.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does the mass transfer coefficient represent?

It measures how quickly a species moves across a boundary layer for a given concentration driving force. Larger values indicate easier transfer between phases or between fluid regions.

2. Which method should I choose?

Choose the flux method when experiments directly provide flux. Choose the rate method when you know total molar transfer and area. Choose the Sherwood method when transport correlations are available.

3. Why is concentration difference important?

The coefficient is defined relative to the concentration driving force. If the concentration difference is very small, the same flux implies a much larger coefficient.

4. Can I use this for gas-liquid systems?

Yes. The calculator is suitable for gas-liquid, liquid-liquid, membrane, and many diffusion film problems, provided the selected inputs match the physical model behind your case.

5. What unit is most common for k?

Meters per second is the most common SI unit. This page also converts the result to centimeters per second, millimeters per second, and feet per second.

6. What is the Sherwood number?

Sherwood number is a dimensionless transfer parameter. It links convective mass transfer to diffusion, similar to how Nusselt number links heat transfer to thermal conduction.

7. Why does the calculator show resistance?

Resistance is simply 1/k. It helps compare barriers to transfer. Higher resistance means slower transport and usually stronger film limitations.

8. Are these results suitable for final design?

They are useful for screening, education, and preliminary sizing. Final design should also check correlations, property variation, interfacial behavior, and experimental validation.

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Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.