Stability of a tilted granular monolayer: How many spheres can we pick before the collapse?
Abstract
The triggering of avalanches is investigated using discrete element simulations for a process of random extraction of spheres. A monolayer, formed by identical spheres in a hexagonal configuration, is placed on a tilted plane surrounded by a small fence that sustains the spheres, mimicking the disposal of fruits in the market. Then, a random continuous extraction process of spheres is imposed until the collapse. For this simple numerical experiment, a phase diagram was obtained to visualize the occurrence of avalanches triggered by vacancies as a function of the tilting angle, system size, and friction coefficient. More importantly, a subzone was found where we can predict the critical number of extractions until the avalanche takes place. The prediction is made from an evolution model of the average coordination number based on statistical considerations. The theoretical prediction also gives a constant critical void fraction of spheres, which implies the system collapses at a critical packing fraction.
Más información
Título según WOS: | ID WOS:001232101700003 Not found in local WOS DB |
Título de la Revista: | PHYSICAL REVIEW E |
Volumen: | 108 |
Número: | 6 |
Editorial: | AMER PHYSICAL SOC |
Fecha de publicación: | 2023 |
DOI: |
10.1103/PhysRevE.108.064904 |
Notas: | ISI |