Stress transmission in entangled granular structures

Abstract We study the transmission of compressive and tensile stresses, development stress - induced anisotropy in entangled granular structures composed nonconvex S-shaped hooks staples. Utilizing discrete element simulations, we find that these systems exhibit fundamentally different behavior compared to standard convex particle systems, including ability entangle which contributes a lower jamming packing fraction facilitates stresses. present direct evidence chains, show chains are generally sparser, shorter shorter-lived than found packings. finally probability distribution, angular density anisotropic spatial correlation minor (compressive) major (tensile) The insight gained for can help design reconfigurable recyclable capable bearing considerable loads, without any need reinforcement. Graphical abstract