Welcome to the Granular Mechanics Group

Pr. Dr. Emilien AZÉMA
Professor (full) – University of Montpellier
Professeur Associé – Polytechnique Montréal
Junior member of Institut Universitaire de France (IUF)
Laboratoire de Mécanique et Génie Civil (LMGC)

The Granular Mechanics Group at the University of Montpellier focuses on advancing theoretical and computational methods to simulate the complex behavior of granular materials across various scales and physical phenomena. Our primary objective is to deepen our understanding of the physics and mechanics of granular materials in engineering, environmental and industrial contexts. The strength of our group lies in our ability to incorporate increasingly realistic elements into both numerical and theoretical models. Specifically, we excel in incorporating realistic grain shapes (angular, elongated, non-convex and even highly non-convex), a wide range of grain size distributions, grain fragmentation or grain deformation, complex contact interactions, and even the combination of these elements together. We are dedicated to unraveling the origins and transformations of intricate static, transient, and flowing behaviors exhibited by granular media. Furthermore, we are committed to developing cutting-edge tools and theories that can effectively tackle emerging engineering challenges in areas such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, mining, energy and planetary sciences. By doing so, we aim to provide innovative solutions for a sustainable futur.

We are located in the Laboratoire de Mécanique et Génie Civil (LMGC) at the Université de Montpellier

Research Projects