Lattice-Boltzmann simulations of fluidization of rectangular particles

Lattice-Boltzmann simulations on fluidization of two-dimensional rectangula r multi-particles falling against gravity are performed. The particle behav ior is dominated by inertia effects associated with wakes. The long bodies of the rectangular particles turn horizontal dominantly. Relative stable pa rticle clusters and inverted T clusters are found. Drafting, kissing and me lting can be used to characterize the behavior of multi-rectangular particl es. Simulation results are well consistent with the experimental results of three-dimensional cylindric and disk particles. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.