Discrete element modelling of flexible membrane boundaries for triaxial tests

Convergence of the discrete free boundaries for finite element approximations

Modelling of interaction between a snow mantle and a flexible structure using a discrete element method

The search of improvement of protective techniques against natural phenomena such as snow avalanches continues to use classic methods for calculating flexible structures. This paper deals with a new method to design avalanche protection nets. This method is based on a coupled analysis of both net structure and snow mantle by using a Discrete Element Method. This has led to the development of co...

Comparative Evaluation of Different Aperture Geogrids for Ballast Reinforcement through Triaxial Testing and Discrete Element Modeling

Geogrids are commonly used in transportation applications for stabilization and reinforcement due to their higher tensile strengths compared to geotextiles as well as the stiffness improvement they provide through arresting and interlocking granular particles in the geogrid apertures. Influenced by many factors, such as the aperture shape and size of geogrid, the degree of interlocking contribu...

An analysis of the triaxial apparatus using a mixed boundary three-dimensional discrete element model

The triaxial test is probably the most important fundamental laboratory test for geotechnical engineers. The objective of the study presented here was to gain insight into the micro-scale interactions experienced by particles during a triaxial test using the distinct element method (DEM). To achieve this objective, a novel DEM modelling environment to simulate triaxial tests on ideal granular m...

Three-Dimensional Discrete Element Simulations of Direct Shear Tests

Using discrete element methods, geotechnical engineers can create “virtual laboratories” to simulate conventional laboratory tests. In this study, three-dimensional DEM simulations of direct shear tests are coupled with equivalent physical tests on steel balls. The macro-scale response of simulations is compared with the physical test results to validate the discrete element model and to gain i...