Coarse-Grain DEM Modelling in Fluidized Bed Simulation: A Review

In the last decade, a few of the early attempts to bring CFD-DEM of fluidized beds beyond the limits of small, lab-scale units to larger scale systems have become popular. The simulation capabilities of the Discrete Element Method in multiphase flow and fluidized beds have largely benefitted by the improvements offered by coarse graining approaches. In fact, the number of real particles that can be simulated increases to the point that pilot-scale and some industrially relevant systems become approachable. Methodologically, coarse graining procedures have been introduced by various groups, resting on different physical backgrounds. The present review collects the most relevant contributions, critically proposing them within a unique, consistent framework for the derivations and nomenclature. Scaling for the contact forces, with the linear and Hertz-based approaches, for the hydrodynamic and cohesive forces is illustrated and discussed. The orders of magnitude computational savings are quantified as a function of the coarse graining degree. An overview of the recent applications in bubbling, spouted beds and circulating fluidized bed reactors is presented. Finally, new scaling, recent extensions and promising future directions are discussed in perspective. In addition to providing a compact compendium of the essential aspects, the review aims at stimulating further efforts in this promising field.