Leading High Shear Fluid Processor helps Researchers to Study the Break-up of Silica Particle Clusters for the DOMINO Project

Analytik report on BHR Group using the Microfluidics M-110P for the DOMINO project to study the break-up of silica particle clusters.

BHR Group is an independent research, consultancy and testing company based on the prestigious Cranfield University campus for over 60 years. They specialise in the core skills of fluid dynamics, process scale-up, mixing and dispersion processes; physical and computational modelling, materials interaction, computer aided engineering (CAE), engineering mechanics, chemical behaviour and numerical modelling in the areas of chemical, civil and mechanical engineering.

BHR Group provides a dedicated 4000m2 research and test facility designed specifically to conduct a wide range of experimental studies relating to chemical, mechanical and civil engineering applications in addition to performing numerical modelling studies.

DOMINO is an industrial project run by BHR Group aiming to develop process design procedures based on the findings of the research programme. DOMINO’s research areas include incorporation of nanoparticles and nanoclays, break up of nanoparticle clusters, delamination of nanoclays, nanoemulsions, dispersion rheology, stabilisation, numerical modelling and selection of process equipment and design.

Speaking about Microfluidics technology being used within the DOMINO project, BHR senior consultant, Dr Gül Özcan-Ta?k?n, said: “We use a broad range of process devices, including in-line and batch rotor-stators, ultrasonic dispersers, stirred bead mills and mechanically agitated tanks. The Microfluidics technology complements our facility really well, allowing us to cover a wider spectrum of process equipment. We have used the Microfluidics M-110P within the DOMINO project to study deagglomeration of nanoparticle clusters in liquids and nanoemulsification processes. This device has also been used for other test materials during confidential projects.”

Microfluidics, part of Idex Corporation, are manufacturers of unique high pressure homogeniser fluid processors that are the gold standard in nano-enabled applications for uniform particle size reduction, cell disruption and nanoemulsion formation. The combined performance and scalability of Microfluidics equipment is well known and proven in the world of nanotechnologies.