Spouting behavior of binary particle mixtures of different densities: Fluid dynamics and particle segregation

Abstract Numerous industrial applications of spouted beds involve a mixture of granular particles, where differences in particle size, density, and shape can cause particle segregation, affecting the quality of flow and decreasing product homogeneity. The aim of this study was to investigate the particle segregation and fluid dynamics of a conical spouted bed operating with a binary mixture of particles of different densities. Using glass beads and polyethylene particles with a diameter of 4 mm, we determined the effects of the mass fraction of denser particles and static bed height on the minimum spouting condition and mixture index. The pressure drop and airflow in the minimum spouting condition increased with an increase in bed height or jetsam concentration. Regarding particle segregation, the jetsam particles tended to concentrate near the bottom, at the spout–annulus interface because they have a shorter trajectory than the lighter particles in the fountain region. Jetsam-rich mixtures with high initial static bed heights exhibited more efficient particle mixing, excluding those at the bottom of the bed.