Fluidization of fine cohesive powders and nanoparticles - A review

Fluidization of fine cohesive powders, generally classified as the Geldart's group C powders, and fluidization of nanoparticles less than 100 nm were reviewed. Fundamentals on cohesiveness among particles and their extension to prediction of agglomerate size and effects on fluidization phenomena were introduced. Methods for improving fluidization, which include flow conditioners, mechanical vibration, sound-assisted fluidization, fluidization with magnetic/electric fields, pulse fluidization, and centrifugal fluidization, were investigated. Finally, the potential application of fluidization in handling and processing of cohesive powders, especially for nanoparticles, were explored.