We observe experimentally that particle systems that would otherwise mix can be made to segregate and vice versa simply by adding moisture. Using a newly developed theoretical approach, we generate phase diagrams that exhibit both mixed and segregated phases and show how the location of phase boundaries may be manipulated via modifying the mechanical and surface properties of the particles. These results have implications for industrial mixing/separation processes as well as novel particle production methods (e.g., engineered agglomerates with precisely prescribed compositions).

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By taking a discrete view of cohesion, we develop a particle-level model which can accurately predict the extent of particle mixing and segregation in cohesive (wet) granular systems. Our model is based on a discrete characterization tool and is used to generate phase diagrams of the predicted particle behavior. These phase diagrams exhibit both mixed and segregated phases where the boundary is determined by the mechanical and surface properties of the particles, such that manipulation of surface properties and/or size/density ratios provides a method to control cohesive particle mixing and segregation. A detailed description of the phase diagram development process as well as quantitative validation of the theoretical results are reported here.

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