It is proposed to study fundamental aspects related to the motion of fluidized assemblies of rigid particles under inertial, newtonian and non-newtonian viscous, and gravity effects. The objective is understanding of the flow microstructure, by using flow visualization and direct numerical simulations in the field of particulate two-phase sedimentation, fluidization and shear flows. A combined experimental (high speed camera visualization, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging) and computational (various two and three-dimensional methods for two-phase flow) approach has been planned. The project will lead to a better understanding of particulate flow mechanisms in newtonian and viscoelastic fluids, including particle interaction mechanisms and flow induced anisotropy, with application in a large series of industrial processes in chemical plants and oil extraction facilities.//
