A Simple Model for the Evolution of the Characteristics of Aggregate Particles Undergoing Coagulation and Sintering

Abstract

A simple model describing the evolution of particle morphology, size, and number concentration by coagulation and sintering is presented that neglects the spread of the polydispersity of aggregate and primary particles. The influence of irregular/fractal structure on the collision kernel is accounted for, from the free molecular to the continuum regime. The model predictions compare well to those of a detailed two-dimensional sectional model of nonspherical particle dynamics. After a theoretical evaluation of the main sintering mechanism, the proposed model was applied to laser synthesis of silicon in an aerosol reactor.