2025 AIChE Annual Meeting

(220f) Chaotic Hydrodynamics in Memory of Prof. Van Den Bleek

Author

Whilst chaos theory and fluidized bed hydrodynamics are routinely seen together nowadays, this was certainly not the case in 1990 when Cor van den Bleek had just became professor. Being in the honourable position to be the first PhD student that worked on this exciting field, in this presentation I will reflect on the pioneering years where Cor and his team started to explore this fascinating field of research.

Many “first ever” methods, experiments, theories and concepts were explored and tried out: some successful, some less so. I will sketch how the initial ideas gradually turned into a comprehensive and systematic approach to quantify the complex hydrodynamics of fluidized beds. This involved plenty of theory, for which we worked with the renowned mathematician professor Floris Takens, but always kept a solid eye on the practical engineering applicability.

In particular, I like to commemorate how Cor infused his enthusiasm and energy into this work and his teaching. Critical and with a sharp eye for details but always looking for new solutions to the problems. He was convinced how solid and hard work led to good and useful results. Not surprisingly his research group was always a place bustling with students.