Mas. Quintanilla et al., Correlation between bulk stresses and interparticle contact forces in finepowders - art. no. 031301, PHYS REV E, 6403(3), 2001, pp. 1301
We present measurements of the tensile strength as a function of the consol
idation stress for a set of fine Cohesive powders (xerographic toners) of 1
2.7 mum particle size and with a range of concentration of submicron fumed
silica as flow control additive. This additive is well known for its abilit
y to control interparticle adhesion force. Parallel measurements using an a
tomic force microscope have been carried out on the adhesion force between
two individual grains as a function of a controlled previous load force. Th
e effect of the additive on the tensile strength and adhesion force is anal
yzed. We have found a good correlation between bulk stresses and adhesion f
orces between individual particles. This correlation is compatible with the
existence of a subnetwork of force chains.