PhD scholarship at Laboratoire de Mécanique et de Génie Civil (LMGC), Université de Montpellier, France.
This thesis is about the numerical and experimental investigation of the micromechanical phenomena involved in the generation of waves by the collapse of a granular mass into a body of water.
For further information, see the attached [PDF].
Granular collapses into water, be they natural (submarine landslides, coastal cliff erosion) or man-made
(mine slurries, dam breaks), generate waves and turbulent currents that can have major economic and
natural consequences, wreaking havoc on coastal communities and industries. Recent experimental
and numerical studies have highlighted the coupling mechanisms between the collapse of the granular
phase and the generation of far-travelling waves [1, 2], but few have focused on microscopic, grainscale mechanisms [3]. The influence of micromechanical parameters such as grain friction, lubrication,
capillarity, and fluid percolation is yet to be thoroughly explored.
Objectives
This thesis aims at understanding the momentum transfer between the granular phase and the fluid
phase at a macroscopic scale based on complex micromechanical interactions. More precisely, the
investigation will focus on the effect of grain-scale parameters, such as polydispersity, contact physics
(lubrication, friction and capillarity), and porosity, on the momentul transfer. Then, the momentum
transfer will be linked both qualitatively and quantitatively to the dynamics of the generated waves.
This would enable the assessment and prevention of environmental or operational hazards. Finally, the
extension and validation of the numerical tool would pave the way to its use in similar contexts.
Candidate profile
Overall, this thesis offers the opportunity to leverage skills in both the numerical and experimental
aspects of research focused on immersed granular materials. Therefore, the candidate should have a
strong interest in the development and use of numerical methods, as well as an appetite for experimental
approaches. Required skills include Python and C++ in terms of coding, as well as a good knowledge
of fluid mechanics. Knowledge of granular mechanics is a serious plus, but is not mandatory.
Supervision
This thesis is offered within the framework of the I2S Doctoral School. Its funding depends on the
candidate’s success in an audition conducted by a jury of the Doctoral School. The PhD is proposed
in the ”Laboratoire de M´ecanique et G´enie Civil” (LMGC) under the supervision of:
Mathieu Renouf, Charg´e de Recherche, HDR. LMGC CNRS. mathieu.renouf@umontpellier.fr
Nathan Coppin, Maˆıtre de Conf´erences, LMGC. nathan.coppin@umontpellier.fr
Miguel Cabrera, Assistant Professor, TU Delft. m.a.cabrera@tudelft.nl
For any further information, please contact Nathan Coppin.
About the Author
