Aggregation and dispersion

The mechanical strength of assemblages of particles which are bonded together by interfacial energy or other binding mechanisms is strongly influenced by the assembly structure and the properties of the primary particles and their interfaces. In this area, the surface interactions are characterised by atomic force microscopic and the failure mode of agglomerates and their dispersion due to hydrodynamics stresses are being investigated by the use of Distinct Element and Finite Element Analyses.