Biomass is important in energy conversion processes due to their favourable status with respect to greenhouse gas emissions. However, biomass particles have unusual properties which make them difficult to fluidize and handle. This paper reviews recent research on the hydrodynamics and mixing of biomass particles in fluidized beds. Whereas there has been considerable effort to develop new biomass gasification, combustion, pyrolysis and bio-conversion processes, relatively few authors have characterized the relevant flow characteristics of biomass particles in fluidized beds or investigated measures that could assist in resolving flow issues. The limited work that has been reported on biomass fluidization primarily treats means of achieving fluidization, mixing and segregation. Most of the work has been in low-velocity fluidized beds, although circulating fluidized beds are also important. Further research is needed to provide general understanding of interactions among heterogeneous particles and guidance on conditions that can lead to viable and sustainable processes. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.