Phase diagrams for cohesive particle mixing and segregation

By taking a discrete view of cohesion, we develop a particle-level model which can accurately predict the extent of particle mixing and segregation in cohesive (wet) granular systems. Our model is based on a discrete characterization tool and is used to generate phase diagrams of the predicted particle behavior. These phase diagrams exhibit both mixed and segregated phases where the boundary is determined by the mechanical and surface properties of the particles, such that manipulation of surface properties and/or size/density ratios provides a method to control cohesive particle mixing and segregation. A detailed description of the phase diagram development process as well as quantitative validation of the theoretical results are reported here.