Random packing dynamics of [Formula: see text]-triplets.

Abstract

In this paper, we used a combination of DEM and the multi-sphere method to investigate the random packing dynamics of [Formula: see text]-triplets. These triplets consist of three overlapping primary spheres, forming a bent structure with a bond angle of [Formula: see text] and belonging to the [Formula: see text] symmetry group. The motivation for choosing such a structural arrangement is twofold: first, to understand how bent-shaped structures influence packing dynamics, and secondly, to investigate how mesoscopic or macroscopic particles possessing symmetry similar to that found in more elementary particles impact packing observables. To ensure non-overlapping particles at the beginning of the simulations, the confinement box was divided into basic cells. Each triplet was then inserted into a basic cell with a random orientation. After that, the system is allowed to settle under gravity toward the bottom of the box. An implicit leapfrog algorithm with quaternion acceleration was used to numerically integrate the rotational motion equations. Through a molecular approach, we consider the impact of long-range cohesive forces by employing a Lennard-Jones (LJ)-type potential. Packing processes are studied assuming different long-range interaction strengths. Different quantities are studied including packing density and orientation pair correlation function. In addition, the force probability distributions in the random packing structures have been analyzed.