Rheology of sticky particles
While the study of granular materials has advanced significantly over the past two decades, the behavior of powders, which is critically influenced by interparticle adhesion, remains less understood. Powders often exhibit flow difficulties, clogging, instabilities, and intermittency. The engineering term "powder flowability," used to characterize a powder’s ability to flow, lacks a solid physical foundation. A key experimental challenge in investigating powder flow from a fundamental perspective is achieving precise control over particle adhesion.
Our study addresses this challenge using a model cohesive material composed of silica beads coated with a thin polymer layer, where the coating thickness regulates cohesion. After providing an overview of current knowledge on granular flows, the seminar will demonstrate how the addition of a pinch of polymers to a granular material dramatically alters the medium’s rheology..
Contact Nathanaël Machicoane for more information or to schedule a discussion with the seminar speaker.