A multi-scale physical model of granular materials

Granular materials display a certain number of properties that have long been observed but only partially understood. Some resemble the properties of solids, some resemble the properties of fluids and others are unique. The concept on "fourth state of matter" has been mentioned. This is perhaps precisely the reason why these materials are so fascinating and beautiful. Thus the aim of this work is both a better physical understanding of the causes of these phenomena in properties of individuals grains and the achievement of realistic and beautiful animation sequences by the physical simulation of these grains.