Low density fragile states in cohesive powders

TL;DR

This paper explores the formation of low density fragile states in cohesive powders, highlighting their unique properties compared to non-cohesive granular media like sand, with implications for understanding dry quicksand phenomena.

Contribution

It demonstrates that weak low density states are readily formed in cohesive powders but not in cohesionless granular media, clarifying the role of cohesion in such states.

Findings

Low density fragile states occur in cohesive powders.

Such states are not formed in cohesionless granular media.

Implications for understanding dry quicksand phenomena.

Abstract

We discuss the difference between cohesive and non-cohesive granular media in the context of a recent report of "dry quicksand." Weak low density states with properties like dry quicksand are readily formed in common household powders. In contrast, such states cannot be formed in cohesionless granular media such as ordinary sand.