Modelling of Binder-Induced Agglomeration

Abstract

From the analysis of pendular liquid bridge forces between spherical particles, a model has been developed to predict bridge rupture energies. Whilst this model has been shown to predict the correct trends in certain stages of agglomeration, it is limited by the assumptions of zero contact angle, toroidal bridge geometry, spherical particles and quasi-static rupture. The work described here is aimed at extending the model to more generally applicable conditions using direct measurement of bridge rupture energies between particles down to 3 mu m in diameter under different physiochemical conditions. Initial results show that the spreading coefficient of the binder to the particle has a marked effect on the dynamic behaviour of the bridge itself and its subsequent geometry at equilibrium, i.e. for non-zero contact angles theoretical equations tend to over-predict the force of adhesion, whilst fur zero contact angles the force of adhesion agrees with that predicted using the Laplace equations for constant curvature. On the other hand, the corrected expression for maximum separation distance shows good agreement with experimental results.