Poster 9

Melissa Jerkins UT-Physics

Is there a limit on being loose? – Random packing of spheres The volume fraction of a collection of spheres is the ratio of the volume of the spheres to the total volume they occupy, and the lower limit of this ratio defines ”random loose packing.” The volume fraction of a sedimented bed and the flow rate Q are related by the equation (Q) = RLP + a Q-b where RLP is the random loose packing value, and a and b are parameters whose physical significance is not understood. By fluidizing a column of glass beads and examining the settled post-fluidized states, I am studying how RLP , a, and b depend on physical parameters. I will present preliminary data indicating that RLP is independent of bead diameter, as well as data concerning how RLP depends on frictional properties of the beads.