Optimal packing in 2D and 3D granular systems: Density, connectivity, and force distributions

In this work, we explore the influence of grain size distribution (GSD) on density, connectivity and internal forces distributions, for both 2D 3D granular packings built mechanically. For power law GSDs, show that there is an exponent which density are optimized, close to those characterize other well known GSDs such as Fuller Thompson Appollonian packing. addition, studied distributions normal forces, finding these can be described by a power-law tail, specially with large span. These results highlight role GSD structure suggest important consequences macroscopic properties.