Papers
On the inherent correlation between the fluidization and flow properties of cohesive powders
P. Christian van der Sande, Kaiqiao Wu, Rens Kamphorst, Evert C. Wagner, Gabrie M. H. Meesters, J. Ruud van Ommen, On the inherent correlation between the fluidization and flow properties of cohesive powders, AIChE Journal, 26 December 2024.
In the world of powder and particle containing recators e.g. fluidized bed or mixing reactors, comprehending the behavior of powders under fluidization is important. Researchers endeavored to unravel its complexities, aiming to devise a simpler method for predicting this behavior. The GranuDrum emerges as a promising tool for conducting 'straight-forward' flowability experiments. At Delft University, MSc. Christian van der Sande, a PhD candidate, alongside Dr.ir. G.M.H. Meesters, an Associate Professor at TU Delft, unveiled the critical significance of the Cohesive Index (CI) in evaluating flowability, particularly concerning cohesive materials in fluidized bed applications and powder mixing reactors.
Pushing the boundaries further, as they experimented with higher rotational speeds using the GranuDrum, they stumbled upon intriguing phenomena. At elevated speeds, characterized by higher Froude numbers, the powder underwent flooding transformations akin to those observed in fluidized beds. Aeration and mechanical fluidization played pivotal roles, bringing the powder into a state comparable to fluidization.
The CI value provided a glimpse into the potential flooding and fluidization capabilities of cohesive materials. Whether a material could undergo fluidization, with or without assistance methods such as mechanical vibration, hinged on this crucial indicator.