Abstract
Realistic yet efficient representation of particle shape is a major challenge for the Discrete Element Method. This paper uses angle-of-repose and direct-shear test simulations to describe the influence of several shape representation methods, and their parameters, on the bulk response of granular assemblies. Three rolling resistance models, with varying coefficient of rolling friction, are considered for spherical particles. For non-spherical particles, superquadrics with varying blockiness and multi-spheres with varying bumpiness are used to model cuboids and cylinders of several aspect ratios. We present extensive quantitative results showing how the various ways used to represent shape affect the bulk response, allowing comparisons between different approaches. Simulations of angle-of-repose tests show that all three rolling friction models can model the avalanching characteristics of cube/cuboid and cylindrical particles. Simulations of direct-shear tests suggest that both the shear strength and the dilative response of the considered non-spherical particles (but not their porosity) can only be predicted by the elasto-plastic rolling resistance model. The quantitative nature of the results allows identifying values of the shape-description parameters that can be used to obtain similar results when using alternative shape representation methods.Graphical abstract
Highlights
For granular materials, particle shape is an important factor that can highly influence the contact-level behaviour of single particles and, affect the bulk-scale response
Only R FEPSD has a significant influence on the shear strength of the granular assembly, which increases with increasing rolling friction value
It must be noted that R FCI and R FRVD models are not suitable for simulation of the dense shearing regimes
Summary
Particle shape is an important factor that can highly influence the contact-level behaviour of single particles and, affect the bulk-scale response. Non-spherical shapes lead to geometric interlocking between. Austria 4 DCS Computing GmbH, Industriezeile 35, 4020 Linz, Austria 5 Department of Particulate Flow Modelling, Johannes Kepler. Achieving a realistic, yet efficient, representation of particle shape is currently one of the most important challenges for the Discrete Element Method (DEM). In DEM, spheres are usually employed to describe particle shape, due to their simplicity and low computational cost. Restraining rotations through rolling resistance models has been suggested to overcome the inherent inability of the spheres to provide geometric interlocking [14, 37], and represent indirectly the effect of particle shape
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
