Hybrid Discrete-continuum Model for Granular Flow

Abstract

We present a hybrid discrete-continuum model for multi-scale simulation of granular flow. In this method, the domain is decomposed into a discrete sub-domain, where individual particles are tracked using discrete element method, and a continuum sub-domain is solved using the Navier-Stokes equation combined with kinetic theory of granular flow. The spatial coupling between continuum method and discrete method is achieved through an overlap region, in which both methods’ variables are shared with each other. The feasibility of the hybrid discrete-continuum model is demonstrated through the simulation of a velocity-driven granular Poiseuille flow with mono-disperse, smooth (frictionless) particles.