Particle shape effects on granular column collapse using superquadric DEM

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic study of particle shape effects on granular collapse using superquadric Discrete Element Method. Superquadrics allow non-spherical shapes to be accurately described by varying shape parameters, namely blockiness and particle aspect ratio. Simulations of low and high column collapse with various particle shapes from spheres to elongated/platy cubes are conducted. We found that the collapse of particles with higher blockiness results in shorter runout distance, increased retained height and more particles stacking along boundary walls. Particle blockiness also has clear influence on critical column aspect ratio and scaling law constants. Elongated and platy particles cause uneven deposit surfaces; however, the effects on runout distance, retained height and scaling law constants are relatively different between these two shapes. Particle sphericity, on the other hand, shows trivial effects on granular collapse. These findings significantly complement the understanding of the exclusive effects of particle shapes on granular collapse response.