The Particle Society of Minnesota is a Minnesota-based organization with the mission to promote an interdisciplinary approach to particle science. It was formed in 1999 in association with the Center for Interfacial Engineering at the University of Minnesota, the Engineering Research Center at the University of Florida Gainesville, the Particle Division of the Adhesion Society, the Particle Technology Forum of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and the Adhesives and Sealants Council. The Particle Society of Minnesota seeks to involve academic and industrial particle science professionals in continuing education in particle science utilizing expertise from the fields of mechanical and chemical engineering, materials science, chemistry and physics. This organization also strives to bring particle science professionals together to form networks that will support professional and career growth.

The Particle Society organizes and sponsors conferences, meetings, and programs that feature discussions on large particle agglomeration, pharmaceutical particles, nanoparticles, industrial powder handling, and many other particle related topics. Select the "Events" link for information on upcoming programs.

Anyone interested in particle science who works with problems involving particle size reduction, classification and measurement. Particle encapsulation, surface treatment, fluidization, dispersion, agglomeration, transport and bulk measurement are also subjects of interest. Diverse industries including food processing, adhesives, coatings, abrasives, sealants, electronics, pharmaceuticals, mining, power generation and others utilize aspects of particle science every day to solve problems. Examples of questions shared by participants in The Particle Society of Minnesota are:

• How can the best grinding efficiencies be obtained to make foods, specialty chemicals or refined mineral products?

• How do I characterize particles?

• How can sub-micron particles be made? How can these particles be treated to keep them de-agglomerated?

• How can particle size and shape be maintained? How can these particles be surface treated to impart unique properties?

• What are the best methods for suspending particles in fluids?

• What are the desorption and adsorption properties of particles?

Copyright 2006, Particle Society of Minnesota