Why can gas lifts pump liquids that contain solid particles?

Gas lifts are capable of pumping liquids that contain solid particles because they operate without any moving parts.1

In this system, compressed gas is introduced into the liquid near the bottom of a well, creating a mixture that is lighter and more buoyant than the liquid alone, which then rises to the surface to be discharged. Because the mechanism relies on this buoyancy effect rather than mechanical components—such as impellers, pistons, or valves that could be damaged or clogged by debris—it is well-suited for handling fluids containing solids.1