Collapse of columns of granular rods

Abstract

Simulation results are presented on the collapse of granular columns composed of rod-like particles. Columns can be stable and free-standing if either the friction coefficient is large enough, or the rods long enough. Destabilizing gravitational forces are counteracted by increased frictional forces between the rods. Different to columns made of spherical particles this is possible, because rod contacts can slide along the rod axes to generate the necessary "frictional cohesion".