Particle shape modification in comminution

Abstract

The evolution of particle shape during the course of comminution processes has been investigated. Shape is characterized using a variety of quantitative shape descriptors determined from particle profiles obtained by image analysis. Descriptors related to particle elongation, roundness and angularity are emphasized. Distributions of the descriptors have been determined for a range of particle sizes, for different extents of grinding for various equipment types. For a given descriptor, the distributions of measured values generally follow a consistent pattern (often roughly log normal). Typically, the means and standard deviations show progressive changes as grinding time increases. For the most part, prolonged exposure to the grinding environment leads to rounding of the particles.