Glossary

Agglomerates

In the grinding process, the term agglomerates refers to the clustering of fine particles into larger lumps or clusters. As solid substances are ground into smaller particles, various forces such as Van der Waals forces, electrostatic attraction, or even mechanical adhesion can cause these fine particles to stick together and form agglomerates.

These agglomerates can affect the characteristics of the ground material, particularly in terms of flowability and homogeneity. In some cases, agglomerates are desirable to achieve a specific particle size distribution or to make powdery substances easier to handle. However, they can be problematic in other instances, as they may reduce the efficiency of the grinding process and lead to uneven particle sizes.

Therefore, controlling and managing agglomeration during the grinding process is crucial in many industries to ensure the desired quality and consistency of the final product. Various techniques and equipment, such as specialized mills or additives, can be used to control or prevent the formation of agglomerates.