Convection, Segregation and Pattern Formation in Horizontally Vibrated Granular Materials

We reviewed the developments in segregation, convection and pattern formation in horizontally vibrated granular systems which are important for the improvement of several industrial developments, such as agriculture, mining, pharmaceutical, geo-sciences, civil engineering etc. The most of previous theoretical and experimental research works were focused on vertical vibration direction; only limited studies explored the horizontally vibrated granular systems. Segregation, convection and pattern formation in horizontally vibrated systems are complex phenomena. Size ratio, particle properties, energy input, vibrational direction and boundary conditions are all playing significant roles. Several studies have been performed but extensive experiments and theoretical models are still mandatory to attain the firm explanations of these phenomena. Progresses in simulation software, novel analytical models and innovative experimental methods are desirable to sustain developments on these issues. KeywordsConvection, Segregation, Pattern Formation, Stripe Formation, Granular Physics