Open-cell foams are a promising new support for gas-liquid contacting and heterogeneous catalysis. Using the Piston-Dispersion-Exchange model, axial dispersion and dynamic-static liquid mass transfer coefficient are estimated from residence time distribution responses measured under co-current down flow configuration. The specific morphological parameters and the high porosity involved within open-cell foams result in low Bodenstein numbers (0.05 < Bo < 0.2 for 2.5 < Re < 20) in comparison to conventional packed beds (0.2 < Bo < 0.7 for 5 < Re < 23). Furthermore, open-cell foam improves liquid mass transfer coefficient between the dynamic and the static zones under trickle flow conditions. (c) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.