Chapter 5 - Particle Size Distribution

Abstract

In this chapter, a new general expression of the particle size probability density distribution (PSD) function is discussed by making use of information entropy. This newly defined expression can effectively represent both narrow and wide distributions that are described by three traditional common PSDs. The usefulness of the new PSD is clarified by applying it to the examples: the superiority of the new PSD in comparison to traditional PSD with regard to usefulness, droplet size distribution in liquid–liquid mixing in a stirred vessel, bubble size distribution in an aerated stirred vessel, crystal size distribution in a crystallizer, and crushed product size distribution in a ball mill. The eddy size probability density distribution can also be expressed by the newly defined PSD. The particle size distribution can be plotted in terms of the cumulative percent oversize or undersize in relation to the particle diameters. The weight, volume, number, and so on are used for percentage. By differentiating the cumulative distribution with respect to the diameter of the particle, the PSD can be obtained.