Mixing nanoparticles in a ProCell type spouted bed

Abstract

Mixing nanoparticles is critical in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, solar, and nanotechnology. When different nanopowders are mixed, hetero-aggregates consisting of hetero-contacts are formed, facilitating the exchange of charge, mass and moments between particles of different materials. This research paper presents a novel approach for mixing nanoparticles using special spouted bed equipment to produce hetero-aggregates. The paper explores the potential of special spouted bed equipment for mixing nanoparticles. High-velocity opposed inlet air streams in this equipment result in high gas-solid contact efficiency and enhanced particle circulation, which contribute to the breakage of aggregates and promote the mixing process. The study investigates the aggregate breakage and mixing quality in produced hetero-aggregates. Experimental results demonstrate that the special spouted bed equipment enables efficient mixing of nanoparticles, leading to higher dispersion in hetero-aggregates with many hetero-contacts. The modified homogeneity of mixing method is utilized to quantify the mixing inside the single hetero-aggregates. Visual confirmation of the assessed values of mixing quality is provided by EDX spectral mapping.