Effect of particle size distribution on the properties of petroleum coke water slurry

The slurryability, rheological characteristics and stability of petroleum coke water slurry (PCWS) with different particle size distribution were studied. The results show that the slurryability of petroleum coke was good, and the solid concentration was about 70%. The apparent viscosity of PCWS increases with the petroleum coke concentration increase. The PCWS with wider particle size distribution has the better close-packing and higher stacked efficiency, which results in the higher solid concentration with fewer dispersants. The PCWS behaves as a dilatant fluid with naphthalene series dispersant. The dilatability decreases with the wide distribution of particle size. The stability of PCWS is evaluated by using standing observation and Turbiscan Lab stability analyzer methods. When the particle size is larger, the stability of PCWS is worse, the drainage rate is lower, and the petroleum coke particle coalescence and hard sedimentation are easy formation. Particle coalescence is the main factor influencing the stability of PCWS.