The performance of a downward-irradiation sonoreactor was investigated using calorimetry, KI dosimetry, luminol (Sonochemiluminescence, SCL) method, and aluminium foil erosion method as one of the basic steps for the optimal design of downward-irradiation sonoreactors. The applied frequency was 28 kHz and the input electrical power was 280 - 300 W. The liquid height, from the reactor bottom to the transducer module surface, ranged from 1λ (53.6 mm) to 2λ (107.1 mm). For various liquid heights, the magnitude of calorimetric power and the mass of cavitation-generated I₃^- ion varied significantly. It was found that the additional application of mechanical mixing resulted in higher sonochemical activity, especially in the cavitational active zone, which was induced by violent liquid flow in the reactor. In aluminium foil erosion tests, it was found that less ultrasound energy reached the bottom of the reactor due to the violent liquid flow and no significant sonophysical effect was observed for higher mixing rate conditions (100 and 200 rpm). 

Keywords: Cavitation, Sonoreactors, Calorimetry, KI dosimetry, Sonochemiluminescence (SCL)