An original image-processing technique for obtaining the mixing time: The box-counting with erosions method

The first results showed that the mixing is completely homogeneous after 100 s of agitation. In fact, a pseudo-homogeneity is achieved much more rapidly (t < 40 s) but subsequent images show that aggregates still remain in the reactor. The method is then applied to the mixing of the two powders under different operating conditions and also to the blend of the two powders and one viscous liquid to simulate the chemical reaction evolution. The results obtained are satisfactory. They allow determination of the mixing time and quantification of the degree of homogeneity of the blend. For the solid/liquid mixture, the poor affinities between oil and solid have modified the characteristics of the mixture and made it difficult to produce. The final aim is to link these results on the mixing homogeneity and the solid/solid contact times with the reaction kinetics.