Multiscale Simulation with a Two‐Way Coupled Lattice Boltzmann Method and Discrete Element Method

Abstract

AbstractSimulations are helpful to better understand the dynamics and interactions of large numbers of particles and fluid in processes that occur in chemical or process engineering. Depending on whether the suspension is dense, dilute or semi‐dilute, the particles and fluid can be mutually affected. Here, a lattice Boltzmann method for the fluid is combined with a discrete element method for the particles which were treated as point particles. Both are two‐way coupled by drag forces, based on momentum exchange. Single‐particle sedimentation is chosen as a first validation example for one‐ and two‐way coupling. For dense suspensions, contact forces are necessary and a scenario for two colliding particles is verified before the simulation of a multiparticle block is performed.