Discrete Element Modeling and Shape Characterization of Realistic Granular Shapes

摘要

This paper documents a methodology for characterizing granular materials in three dimensions using two-dimensional shape descriptors. This paper demonstrates that Fourier-based three-dimensional shape descriptors can be constructed for sands having a common geologic origin, using a statistical combination of two-dimensional projections. A skeletonization algorithm is developed in this study to model irregular particle shape for discrete element simulation. The two-dimensional and three-dimensional particle shapes are then implemented within discrete element modeling software to evaluate the influence of grain morphology on shear strength response of granular soil by using discrete simulation of direct shear test.