Particle technology - Reflections and horizons: An engineering perspective

This paper presents a review of particle technology as it relates to the storage, flow and handling of bulk solids. The paper traces salient aspects of the development of this subject from the 1880s to the present. The early research that commenced with studies of silo pressures and spanned some 25 years is briefly reviewed. The work in powder mechanics and soil mechanics that characterized the contributions over the first half of this century is indicated with the major thrust coming in the 1950s through the fundamental work of Jenike. The work of Jenike laid the foundations for a wide range of significant research developments that have occurred over the past 40 years. The work has covered such topics as flow property testing, theories of flow, modelling of particle systems by continuum theory and discrete elements, vibrations of powders, blending and mixing and wall loads under initial filling, flow and pulsing conditions. The importance of industrially orientated research is strongly emphasized. It is shown that in many areas of industrial operations; the range and complexity of the problems multiply at a faster rate than the research outcomes. Industrial interaction is essential in identifying research areas and associated professional development activities.