The transition from two-dimensional (2D) to three-dimensional (3D) granularpackings is studied using large-scale discrete element computer simulations. Wefocus on vertical stress profiles and examine how they change withdimensionality from 2D to 3D. We compare results for packings in 2D, quasi-2Dpackings between flat plates, and 3D packings. Analysis of these packingssuggests that the Janssen theory does not fully describe these packings,especially at the top of the piles, where a hydrostatic-like region of verticalstress is visible in all cases. We find that the interior of the packing is farfrom incipient failure, while in general, the forces at the walls are close toincipient failure.
展开▼
