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Entangled Granular Media

Nick Gravish, Scott V. Franklin, David L. Hu, and Daniel I. Goldman
Phys. Rev. Lett. 108, 208001 – Published 17 May 2012
Physics logo See Synopsis: U-shaped Grains Get Clingy
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Abstract

We study the geometrically induced cohesion of ensembles of granular “u particles” that mechanically entangle through particle interpenetration. We vary the length-to-width ratio l/w of the u particles and form them into freestanding vertical columns. In a laboratory experiment, we monitor the response of the columns to sinusoidal vibration (with peak acceleration Γ). Column collapse occurs in a characteristic time τ which follows the relation τexp(Γ/Δ). Δ resembles an activation energy and is maximal at intermediate l/w. A simulation reveals that optimal strength results from competition between packing and entanglement.

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  • Received 8 December 2011

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.108.208001

© 2012 American Physical Society

Synopsis

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U-shaped Grains Get Clingy

Published 17 May 2012

Piles of staples stand up to shaking better if the staple prongs have an intermediate length.

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Authors & Affiliations

Nick Gravish1, Scott V. Franklin2, David L. Hu3, and Daniel I. Goldman1,*

  • 1School of Physics, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, USA
  • 2Department of Physics, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York 14623, USA
  • 3School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, USA

  • *daniel.goldman@physics.gatech.edu

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Issue

Vol. 108, Iss. 20 — 18 May 2012

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