Structure and Diffusion in Dense Free-Surface Boundary Layer Granular Flow
The research presented in this paper experimentally examines self-diffusion of dense free-surface granular flow. The experimental measurements were made using digital images of granular materials flowing in a partially filled, slowly rotated drum mixer. Particle tracking measurements obtained from these images provided information which helped identify the relationship between the structure of the flow and the self-diffusion, as well as other kinematic properties such as the velocities and velocity fluctuations of the particles. By varying the bead size, density, and angular velocity, the effects of particle properties and external forcing on self-diffusion, velocities and velocity fluctuations of the particles can also be determined. Applications include powder processing in the pharmaceutical and agricultural industries, as well as sediment transport in river sedimentation and landslides.
School:
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Department:
Engineering Mechanics
Research Advisor:
Kimberly M. Hill
Department of Research Advisor:
Theoretical & Applied Mechanics
Year of Publication:
2004