Granular State Effects on Wave Propagation

Sound and pressure wave propagation in a granular material is of interest not only for its intrinsic and practical value, but also because it provides a non-intrusive means of probing the state of a granular material. By examining wave speeds and attenuation, insight can be gained into the nature of the contacts between the particles. In the present paper, wave speeds and attenuation rates are first examined for a static granular bed for a variety of system parameters including particle size, composition and the overburden of the material above the measuring transducers. Agitation of the bed is then introduced by shaking the material vertically. This causes the bed to transition from a static granular state to a vibrofluidized state. The dilation of the bed allows for relative particle motion and this has a significant effect on the measured wave speeds and attenuation. Further, the fluid-like characteristics of the agitated bed distort the forcechain framework through which the waves are thought to travel. The consequences of bed consolidation, a natural result of shaking, are also examined.