Discrete element modeling of colloidal packing dynamics during centrifugal casting

The discrete element method (DEM) has been used to simulate the influences of zeta-potential on the particle packing structures during centrifugal casting of submicron alumina powders. The long-range potential interactions according to the DLVO theory have been implemented into the DEM simulation program. While well-stabilized suspensions with high zeta-potential tend to form particle chains, suspensions with low zeta-potential form agglomerate structures. The mechanism of particle clustering is discussed.