Rheological Characterization of Solids Phase in Biomass Processes of Disc-Stack Centrifuges

Abstract

Rheological characterization of the solids phase in bio-industry disc-stack centrifuges is considered. Three discriminatory properties of the solids phase are investigated, namely, the particle settling velocity, the angle of repose, and the solids phase viscosity. The solids phase produced in disc-stack centrifuges in the food or biopharmaceutical industry possesses both liquid-like and solid-like properties which can be quantified by means of these test methods. The resulting rheological characterization can be used for diagnostic purposes in the selection process of industrial centrifuges and for optimization of centrifuge solids handling in biomass processing of suspension systems.