Characterisation of dewaterability from equilibrium and transient centrifugation test data

Abstract

A knowledge of the properties that quantify the rate and extent of particulate suspension dewatering through sedimentation and consolidation is critical to the prediction of dewatering performance for industrial processes such as gravity settling, centrifugation and filtration. The strength of a network of particles in compression is quantified as a compressive yield stress or modulus, Py(ø). The rate of dewatering is inversely related to the hindered settling function, R(ø), which is a measure of hydrodynamic resistance. Dewaterability characterisation over a broad range of solids concentrations is a challenging task requiring tests including batch settling and pressure filtration. Unfortun..