This article is a review of our recent and new experimental works on granular compaction. The effects of various microscopic parameters on the compaction dynamics are addressed, in particular the influence of the grain shape, the friction and the cohesion between the grains. Two dimensional and three dimensional systems are analysed. And the role of dimensionality will be emphasized. Theoretical and numerical investigations provide additional informations about that phenomenon. Indeed numerical models permit us to study the influence of some parameters not easily accessible experimentally. Our results show that the above mentioned parameters have a deep impact on the compaction dynamics. Anisotropic grains lead to two different compaction regimes separated by a "burst" of the packing fraction. Friction is observed to modify how the grains are arranged in the pile. This is confirmed by numerical simulations. Cohesive forces between particles inhibit compaction and lead to extremely low values of the packing fraction.

The authors have investigated the flow properties of powders by using two classical techniques based on the shear stress measurements and the count of intermittent avalanches, respectively. Results are compared with measurements of the compaction dynamics. Strong correlations are evidenced between compaction relaxation parameters and free flow characteristics. Those correlations are given by semiempirical laws based on physical arguments. This work opens perspectives in powder technology and the knowledge on granular matter.

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