Emergence of structure in columns of grains and elastic loops

It is possible to build free-standing, load-bearing structures using only rocks and loops of elastic material. We investigate how these emerge, find that the necessary maximum loop spacing (the critical spacing) a function frictional properties grains elasticity confining derive model understand both relationships, which depends on simplification behavior at edge structure. higher friction leads larger stable grain-grain grain-loop contact angles resulting in simple for spacing, linearly first order. On other hand, bending rigidity enables better contain hydrostatic pressure grains, we hydroelastic scale. These findings will illuminate stabilization dirt by plant roots, potentially enable construction adhesion-less granular material fiber.