Advanced Manufacturing and Bulk Solids Technology Center

Bulk solids are any dry, flowable material. They come in many forms including powders, granules, pellets and even rocks. Powders and other bulk solids make up more than 80% of items transported around the world, yet formal education and research concerning these materials is not widespread and the poor understanding leads to processing issues at many manufacturing plants. How solid materials behave in transport and processing requires more examination.

Powder and other bulk solids materials are the most common ingredients and end products in many industries including food, pet and animal food, plastics, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, minerals and mining and construction. Even things we wear, drive and drink rely on bulk solid materials.

Did you know?

• Beer is made of water and a variety of bulk solid materials, such as barley and hops.
• Clothing is made of plastics and natural fibers, all of which are dry bulk solids as they are being produced.
• Automobiles and other vehicles are increasingly made of plastics engineered with specialty dry ingredients.