Linear and nonlinear particle breakage processes in comminution systems

In comminution modeling, breakage rate (selection) functions are generally influenced more by the comminution machine than are breakage distribution functions. Linear grinding kinetics can be expressed either in terms of grinding time or specific energy consumption. Nonlinearities in comminution are caused by energy transfer mechanisms in the comminution machine whereby coarser particles might be ground preferentially or are protected by fines, by energy dissipation through interparticle friction in compressed bed comminution, and sometimes from heterogeneities produced in the feed particles. This paper discusses modifications of breakage rate functions for a number of situations and compares simulated and experimental results. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All tights reserved.