Development and validation of a comprehensive 1-D model to simulate gas hold-up and gas–liquid transfer in deep air–water bubble columns

•Hydrodynamics and liquid/gas transfer are described using a comprehensive 1-D model.•The axial 1-D model is applied to 3 datasets obtained on bubble columns with low ɛg.•Gas hold-up and mass transfer are affected by contamination and pressure effects.•Global apparent mass transfer coefficient KLa is lower than axial averaged .•The depletion effect in the gas is emphasized in tall bubble columns and with low db.