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The uncertainty inherent to DEM simulations of interlocking particles
Lukas Maier1, Michael Mitterlindner1, Hadie Benabchiasli1
1Institute of Process and Particle Engineering, Graz University of Technology, Inffeldgasse 13/III, 8010, Graz, Austria.
Tetrapod shapes in Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulations effectively model interlocking materials. Tetrapod size and non-convexity correlate with simulation uncertainty, guiding optimal parameter selection for industrial applications.
Area of Science:
- Computational physics
- Materials science
- Chemical engineering
Background:
- Industrial handling of heterogeneous mixtures presents measurement challenges.
- Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulations often use spherical particles, limiting applications.
- Non-convex particle shapes are needed for materials like recycled polymers and batteries.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the impact of tetrapod properties on DEM simulation outcomes.
- Analyze how tetrapod shape and size influence interlocking behavior and simulation uncertainty.
- Provide guidelines for selecting tetrapod parameters in DEM simulations.
Main Methods:
- Simulations using the Discrete Element Method (DEM).
- Modeling granular flow with non-convex tetrapod particles.
- Correlation analysis of tetrapod properties (shape, size, non-convexity) with simulation results.
Main Results:
- Tetrapods effectively model interlocking granular materials.
- Tetrapod shape and size significantly influence interlocking behavior.
- Simulation uncertainty positively correlates with tetrapod size and non-convexity parameter (ξ/D).
Conclusions:
- Tetrapod shape and size are critical for accurate DEM simulations of interlocking materials.
- Tetrapod parameters can be tuned to control and predict simulation uncertainty.
- Guidelines are provided for selecting optimal tetrapod parameters based on experimental data.
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