Particle segregation

In particle segregation, particulate solids and also quasi solids, such as foams tend to segregate by virtue of differences in the size,and also physical properties such as volume, density, shape and other properties of particles of which they are composed. The process of segregation occurs during as well as during subsequent handling of completed mix and it is pronounced with free-flowing powders. Powders that are not free flowing or that exhibit high forces of cohesion or adhesion between particles of similar or dissimilar composition are often difficult to mix owing to agglomeration. The clumps of particles can be broken down in such cases by the use of mixtures that generate high shear forces or that subject the powder to impact. When these powders have been mixed, however, they are less susceptible to segregation because of the relatively high interparticulates forces that resist interparticulate motion, leading to unmixing.