The Sandless event, which took place over three days in Sydney, NSW, was designed to facilitate interaction and collaboration among researchers from a range of disciplinary backgrounds, including engineering, physics, mathematics, and geoscience. The workshop was held from 1st to 4th July 2024 and hosted by the Sydney Centre in Geomechanics and Mining Materials, represented by Itai Einav.

The designation "SANDLESS" is an apt reflection of its distinctive approach, which is to function as a workshop that excludes certain elements. Over the past three decades, the field of fundamental geomechanics has predominantly focused on sand, often to the exclusion of other essential geomaterials such as clays, silts, complex rocks, and their mixtures. In particular, over that time the discipline has been captivated by the possibilities offered by advanced tools, primarily appropriated for the study of sand, such as micro-CT and DEM. While these tools have facilitated a more rational understanding of geomechanics, it is essential to acknowledge that our world is constructed from a multitude of geomaterials beyond sand. Our chair was represented by Merita Tafili, who presented the results of our research into clay behaviour over several years. The title of the presentation was "Clay Insights: Bridging Experiments and Soil Models". 

The workshop employed an innovative approach, comprising engaging presentations and focused sessions, to explore the cutting-edge research and pioneering methodologies associated with sandless materials.