Breakage behaviour of agglomerates and crystals by static loading and impact

In this contribution the breakage behaviour of needle-shaped particles as L-threonine crystals and cylindrical Al2O3 agglomerates is studied. The breakage of Al2O3 agglomerates is investigated by compression tests. For the L-threonine crystals single particle impacts with a wall are performed. In order to obtain reproducible results an electromagnetic particle gun has been designed. The experimental results are then used to derive a discrete element model to analyze the microdynamics and breakage mechanisms of needle-shaped particles. A good qualitative agreement between simulations and tests is achieved.

The breakage behaviour of needle-shaped l-threonine crystals and cylindrical γ-Al2O3 agglomerates was studied. Compression tests of model agglomerates and their primary particles were performed. A new electromagnetic particle gun was produced to reproduce the collisions of single crystals with a wall. To analyze the microdynamics and mechanisms of the breakage a discrete element model is proposed. A good agreement between simulations and tests has been achieved.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide