Influence of 3D Particle Shape on Some Powder Flow Properties

Publication Reference: 
ARR-53-05
Author Last Name: 
Pirard
Authors: 
Ir. Arnaud Califice, Prof. Dr. Eric Pirard
Report Type: 
ARR - Annual Report
Research Area: 
Characterisation
Publication Year: 
2009
Publication Month: 
12
Country: 
Belgium

The ARR53-03 report presented some further results obtained from both laser triangulations and multiple projection techniques. It contains new developments about 3D image processing of particles with special reference to the use of a Euclidean distance function as a tool to address different shape properties (dissolution; wear; etc.). A case study concerning the 3D analysis of a Zn powder is presented. The size distribution curve is discussed and presented using different parameters to compare with laser diffraction data. The geometrical interpretation of both 2D and 3D image analysis data is very coherent and demonstrates if needed, the sensitivity of laser diffraction to shape. Because of randomized particle orientation and non spherical shapes the laser diffraction results show a wide size range and an overestimation of large sizes whereas image analysis reveals a rather well calibrated distribution.