Internship and thesis proposals
Bridging Micro-Dynamics and Macro-Rheology of Soft Cohesive Granular Media
Domaines
Statistical physics
Soft matter
Physics of liquids
Nonequilibrium statistical physics
Non-equilibrium Statistical Physics
Hydrodynamics/Turbulence/Fluid mechanics

Type of internship
Expérimental et théorique
Description
The construction industry’s shift toward a circular economy is hindered by the irreversibility of traditional cement-based materials, which prevent component reuse without destruction. This project investigates soft cohesive granular media—grains coated with polymer films—as a reversible alternative, inspired by kinetic sand. These materials combine granular mechanics and soft matter physics, enabling controlled disassembly under specific stimuli. Unlike dry granular systems, their rheology is governed by volume fraction as an independent viscosity determinant, with flow localization at low velocities. The study uses modified inclined plane tests, tube discharge analyses, and visco-plastic flow experiments, alongside discrete element simulations, to derive constitutive stress-strain laws. By linking microscopic polymer interactions to macroscopic behavior, the research aims to develop reversible building materials, supporting the Design for Disassembly and Buildings-as-Material-Banks concepts.

Contact
Bruno Andreotti
Laboratory : LPENS -
Team : Mécanique, Matière Molle, Morphogénèse
Team Website
/ Thesis :    Funding :