Coagulation, Acoustic

the process of convergence and enlargement of fine solid particles, drops of liquid, or gas bubbles suspended in a gas or liquid under the influence of sound waves. Forces generated during the propagation of sound waves act on such particles, causing them to draw together and agglomerate. During the coagulation of gas bubbles in a liquid, complete convergence occurs, and the boundaries between bubbles disappear. Thus, in this case, the process progresses to the more thorough stage, ultrasonic coalescence. Coagulation is used to remove industrial fumes from air, to precipitate mists, and for degassing of liquids, particularly molten metals.