The study and understanding of the dynamic phenomena of particles in a granular system is crucial to define the optimal parameters of operation, mix quality and key controls of processes. There are different kinds of methodologies to screen the performance of mix process since sample extractions until tomographic techniques in real time. Some of these methods are based on the introduction of particles to systems used to study and understand the dynamic phenomena, they're called tracers, however, there aren't approaches to find out insights about them and its utility and application on evaluation of granular systems. In this way, this work evaluates different dynamic systems, which has been introduced tracers are reviewed to get the tracers properties and classify them, hydrological until mineral systems are take account for provide a synthesis about utility, functionality and advantages of the tracers. So, a classification and some common properties of the tracers were stablished and these might work as a perspective mainly for study of granular systems as well as providing some keys to consider when the tracers are used to stablishing accessible tools to the study of granular systems in the industry. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.