Trends, Applications, and Factors of Wet Sieving as a Particle Size Analysis Technique

Abstract

In mineral processing, particle size is an important factor to consider since it affects plant design and performance, which later determines the plant's economic return. A certain particle size above and below the mine's optimal size range can adversely influence the recovery of valuable minerals. Particle size analysis is crucial in mechanical alloying controlling alloy composition and homogeneity of the mixture, affecting milling kinetics, reducing contamination, optimizing the milling process, and predicting properties. This chapter includes the understanding of particle size distribution, which helps researchers to tailor the alloying process for specific applications. The trend has been the wet-sieving analysis as a particle size analysis tool for the past 25 years. It provides an overview of different industries where the particle size analysis is used and associated end-users. The chapter also reports on the variables and principles governing factors that affect wet sieving analysis and the challenges that can give misleading and erroneous particle size distribution results.