Theory of Stress Distribution in Granular Materials: the Memory Formalism

Abstract

ABSTRACTA theoretical approach to the description of stress distribution in granular compacts is presented on the basis of a memory function formalism. Experiments which have motivated the approach are mentioned. The formalism is shown to provide an explanation of observed features of stress distribution in compacts, and to lead to existing theories in extreme limits, thereb y providing a unification of the theories. The memory functions are shown to be intimately related to characteristic spatial correlations in the granular system and are discussed on the basis of stochastic considerations.