Calibration of the Discrete Element Method and Modeling of Shortening Experiments

The discrete element method (DEM) is becoming widely accepted as an effective for addressing tectonic problems in granular materials. It capable of reproducing structures observed the analog model (AM). However, previous experiments also pointed to variability among DEM models and AMs number fault zones, their dip angle spacing, evolution surface slope a thrust wedge. accuracy depends on input parameter values, so calibration very important. Microscopic properties particles macroscopic loose quartz sand were calibrated through series repose biaxial tests. Furthermore, AM was constructed simulate wedge compare with results. results indicate encouraging overall agreement evolution. Based new automated quantification method, systematically compared wedge, other parameters. Our study provides necessary comparison between commonly applied modeling approaches, which important more confidently applying these methods understand real fold belt systems.