Investigation of particle density on dust cloud dynamics in a minimum ignition energy apparatus using digital in-line holography

Solids industries have inherent dust explosion hazards. Process risk assessment parameters include overpressure, deflagration index, and minimum ignition energy. These parameters are influenced by dust dynamics, such as turbulence and concentration. Cloud dynamics are affected by particle morphology, density, size, and polydispersity, which affect explosion parameters. Influence of properties such as density during explosion parameter measurement is often overlooked. This study examines particle density influence on dust clouds in the K?hner MIKE3. Two clouds of particles with different density, but similar particle size and morphology were examined with high-speed digital in-line holography, providing velocity and concentration measurements prior to ignition. Results show velocity and concentration of denser dust is lower compared to lighter dust after ignition delay. The results highlight the density effect on cloud dynamics and make a case for particle density to be considered in setting ignition delay in order to get consistent cloud dynamics and test results. ? 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. Solids industries have inherent dust explosion hazards. Process risk assessment parameters include overpressure, deflagration index, and minimum ignition energy. These parameters are influenced by dust dynamics, such as turbulence and concentration. Cloud dynamics are affected by particle morphology, density, size, and polydispersity, which affect explosion parameters. Influence of properties such as density during explosion parameter measurement is often overlooked. This study examines particle density influence on dust clouds in the K?hner MIKE3. Two clouds of particles with different density, but similar particle size and morphology were examined with high-speed digital in-line holography, providing velocity and concentration measurements prior to ignition. Results show velocity and concentration of denser dust is lower compared to lighter dust after ignition delay. The results highlight the density effect on cloud dynamics and make a case for particle density to be considered in setting ignition delay in order to get consistent cloud dynamics and test results.