Force transmission during repose of flexible granular chains

We study the mechanics of standing columns formed during the repose of flexible granular chains. It is one of the many intriguing behaviours exhibited by granular materials when links capable of transmitting tension exist between particles. We develop and calibrate a discrete element method contact model to simulate the mechanics of the macroscopic flexible granular chains and conduct simulations of the angle of repose experiments of these chains by extracting a chain-filled cylinder and allowing the material to flow out under gravity and repose. We evaluate various micro-mechanical, topological and macroscopic parameters to elucidate the mechanics of the repose behaviour of chain ensembles. It is the ability of the links connecting the individual particles to transmit tensile forces along the chain backbone that provides lateral stability to the column, enabling them to stand. In particular, the contact force rearrangement inside the columns generates a self-confining radial stress near the base of the columns, which provides an important stabilizing stress. We study the mechanics of standing columns formed during the repose of flexible granular chains.

Automated summary

This study investigates the mechanics of standing columns formed during the repose of flexible granular chains. By simulating experiments and evaluating various parameters, it is found that the links connecting the particles provide lateral stability to the column, enabling it to stand. In addition, a self-confining radial stress near the base of the column generated by the rearrangement of contact forces also plays an important role.