Delft Solids Solutions published a research paper on real-time, in-situ rheological assessment. You can download this scientific paper on this page. Powder stickiness is essential for industries handling bulk powders, especially in storage, processing, and transport. Delft Solids Solutions has developed a precise method to measure when powders become sticky due to environmental factors like temperature and humidity. This new approach addresses the limitations of traditional vapor adsorption methods. Traditional methods measure only moisture uptake and do not assess flow properties directly under changing conditions.
Advanced Real-Time In-Situ Rheological Assessment
The new testing method uses in-situ rheological testing within a fluidized powder bed. It offers direct insight into flow behavior shifts as conditions change. With precise control over temperature and humidity, this setup measures torque in the fluidized bed. This torque measurement shows the exact point when a powder transitions from free-flowing to sticky. Delft Solids Solutions applied this method to powders like citric acid and coffee whitener. The results revealed unique stickiness thresholds for each material.
Improved Analysis with Flowing Agents
In addition to baseline testing, Delft Solids Solutions explored the effects of flowing agents, which can enhance powder stability under challenging conditions. The presence of these agents proved to significantly impact flow behavior, helping maintain free-flowing properties even as environmental factors change. This analysis provides practical insights for industries seeking to improve powder handling and storage stability.
Real-World Benefits for Industry Applications of the real-time in-situ rheological assessment
The real-time in-situ rheological assessment method not only reduces testing times but also reflects real-world powder behavior under variable conditions. By identifying critical thresholds for stickiness, the approach equips industries with tools to predict and prevent powder cohesion and flow blockages, ensuring smooth operations even in high-moisture or fluctuating temperature environments.