Breakthrough in Clinker grinding

Particle size reduction is one of the most energy intensive and inefficient processes in use today. Traditional means for calculating energy requirements used for sizing equipment rely on empirically derived formulas and indices. The standard work indices of Kick, Bond and Von Rittinger each work within specific particle size ranges based on empirically derived factors. To date the true energy required for size reduction alone is still unknown. Because of this the true efficiency of size reduction processes are also unknown. Fundamental research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) Concrete Sustainability Hub (CSH) is taking a closer look at the theoretical power required for particle size reduction on the micro scale. This work has the potential to greatly reduce the power required for cement manufacture. This paper reviews the MIT research and discusses the possible implications and next steps for that work.