An experimental study of pulsed fluidization of nanoparticles is presented. The study includes measurements of bed pressure drop and bed expansion, together with visual observations. The technique of gas-phase pulsation was observed to be effective in overcoming plug formation and channelling. Moreover, a lower superficial gas velocity was required to achieve uniform fluidization with a pulsed flow than with a steady flow of fluidizing gas. The favourable effects of pulsation were more prominent for the hydrophilic and the ABF (Agglomerate Bubbling Fluidization) nanoparticles. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.