Comminution of limestone during batch fluidized-bed calcination and sulfation

Batchwise fluidized-bed calcination and sulfation of a limestone were done to investigate particle comminution phenomena and their relation with parallel occurrence of reactions. Operating conditions of the bed were those typical of atmospheric bubbling fluidized-bed combustors. A general framework of comminution phenomena is outlined, which includes different types of fragmentations as well as attrition by abrasion. Comminution processes were characterized by following the modifications of bed sorbent particle-size distribution and the elutriation rates of fines throughout conversion. Mutual interactions between comminution processes and the progress of chemical reactions are assessed.