One-dimensional compression test using discrete element method with rotational stiffness of contact surface of spherical elements based on contact theory
2015
Setouchi, H. (University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa (Japan). Faculty of Agriculture)
In this study, to clarify the effect of the rotational stiffness of the contact surface between particles on the one-dimensional compressive stiffness of granular materials, the rotational stiffness induced by the stress and displacement distribution, in accordance with Hertz contact theory, on the contact surface of the spherical elements has been analyzed using the discrete element method. It became evident that the rotational stiffness of the interparticle contact surface increased the strength of the structure of the granular material. Since the strength governs the mechanical stiffness of granular materials, the rotational stiffness led to increased compressive stiffness. Further, the effect of the rotational stiffness of the interparticle contact surface was observed to be significant in the test case of particles that were less angular, and thus, could rotate easily between other particles. This was also observed in the test cases of high confining pressure conditions and of low-elasticity particles wherein the interparticle contact area was large. These results are expected to contribute to advancing the application of the discrete element method for granular analysis that is applicable to a wide range of testing conditions, such as those involving confining pressure or different types of materials.
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