Algorithm to Generate a Discrete Element Specimen with Predefined Properties
Publication: International Journal of Geomechanics
Volume 10, Issue 2
Abstract
The discrete element method is a powerful numerical tool in simulating the behavior of granular materials. It bridges the gap between continuum mechanics and physical modeling investigations. In spite of the significant achievements to date, some major problems are yet to be solved including the development of realistic large-scale models with initial conditions similar to those encountered in real problems. This paper introduces a computational method to generate a large-scale packing with predefined porosity and grain-size distribution in three-dimensional space based on a small initial sample packing. The developed method is implemented into an open-source computer code and used to generate specimens with known properties. The results showed that, under static condition, specimens generated using the proposed algorithm exhibited realistic behavior suitable for geotechnical applications. In addition, the controlled structure of the initial sample packing is successfully transferred to the final packing.
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Acknowledgments
This research was supported by a research grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). The financial support provided by McGill Engineering Doctoral Award (MEDA) to the first writer is greatly appreciated.UNSPECIFIED
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
International Journal of Geomechanics
Volume 10 • Issue 2 • April 2010
Pages: 85 - 91
Copyright
© 2010 ASCE.
History
Received: Mar 13, 2009
Accepted: Aug 7, 2009
Published online: Aug 19, 2009
Published in print: Apr 2010
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