Two-dimensional simulations with pseudo-particle modeling (PPM) are conducted to investigate fluidization behaviors of nano-particles in sub-micron channels. It is found that the magnitude and type of inter-particle forces as well as the fluctuation of the gas phase have important effects on the characteristics of the flow. The study reveals the possibility that surface modification of the nano-particles or adjustment of the external force fields can put the flow behaviors of the nano-particles and the gas phase well under control. This may lead to novel designs of particle processing and/or reaction systems on the nano-scale. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.