“…In batch operation studies the SBDI were loaded with different saturation indexes, that is, volumetric ratios of paste model to inert bodies, and as saturation is increased the spouting pressure drop decreases (Schneider and Bridgewater, 1993;Passos et al, 2000;Spitzner Neto et al, 2001) but contradictory results were found for minimum spouting velocity (Schneider and Bridgewater, 1993;Passos et al, 2000;Spitzner Neto et al, 2001, 2002 which is supposed to depend on paste nature (Schneider and Bridgewater, 1993) and the type of bridges it forms between particles. In continuous operation, similar trends were observed for the spouting pressure drop and minimum velocity (Spitzner Neto et al, 2001, 2002Barcelos et al, 2005).…”